What I Wish I Knew - Bob Rief 'The opposite of love isn't hate. It's indifference.'

For just about any outdoor sports or active lifestyle brand that you like, own, or want, there’s a good chance that Bob Rief has been involved. He was behind Merrill Footwear, Reef Sandals, and Sanuk, and as head of Nike Golf, he signed a college kid called Tiger Woods. Bob was also part of Callaway Golf, K2, Nordica, and Raichle-Molitor. A lifelong waterman, Bob knows the sense of authenticity and community inherent in the culture and he’s built it into every brand. He’s a held many titles: board member, CEO, founder, GM, marketing director, president, and sales manager. And he started as a gold miner.

Bob’s rare talent is maybe only matched by his commitment to help emerging entrepreneurs build their dreams. These days, he serves as executive director of San Diego Sports Innovators, a nonprofit that supports healthy living companies by fostering innovation, providing business mentorship, and building communities.

In this episode of What I Wish I Knew with Mike Irwin & Simon Daw, Bob talks about creating a brand, building a business, and the power of community.

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.

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