From Thrive to Survive to Revive with Rad Season founder Oli Russell-Cowan

What I Wish I Knew with Mike Irwin & Simon Daw

Oli Russell-Cowan was on a mission. It was also his honeymoon. He and his wife were roaming around North, Central, and South America with a plan to surf, see the sights, and experience culture. While surfing and sightseeing were pretty straightforward, they found it hard to find good information about special events like the Day of the Dead in Mexico City. That sparked an idea for a blog, which became a business, and eventually a platform intended to share information, experiences, and logistical help for travelers looking for action sports, music festivals, and cultural events around the world.

The company, Rad Season, was the first one-stop shop for checking out and booking all things rad. Then Covid triggered the shutdown in travel and the cancellation of more than 900 events on Rad Season’s global calendar. While the events were down, interest and participation in many of the activities that Rad Season was built around hit new heights. Running an events company when there were no events was a massive challenge. And also an opportunity.

If there’s one thing we’ve learned from the guests on What I Wish I Knew with Mike Irwin and Simon Daw, it’s this: no matter the obstacles, these people always find a way. In this episode, Oli talks about the evolution of Rad Season: from the uncertainty of the beginning, to the acceleration with partners and events, and then shifting gears as covid came on. Resilience and adaptability are important in any business and so are the lessons that Oli shares.

What I Wish I Knew with Mike Irwin & Simon Daw...

Life and career rarely go to plan. Breakthroughs happen on the ragged edge when things aren't quite going as expected. What I Wish I Knew podcast hosts Mike Irwin and Simon Daw explore lessons learned by leading athletes, creators, entrepreneurs, leaders, and difference makers. They all have three things in common: none are perfect, all are humble, and they've learned a few things along the way. In What I Wish I Knew, they share their lessons with you. http://www.whatiwishiknewshow.com

Please like, share, and subscribe to What I Wish I Knew on Anchor, Apple, Google, Spotify, and wherever you find your favorite podcasts. Got an idea for the podcast? [e-mail]

Connect with Oli Russell-Cowan:

https://radseason.com/