Advertise on podcast: Awkward Watersport Guys Podcast

In this episode, the guys sit down with financial consultant Andrew Howrigan for a conversation about what it really takes to build, protect, and grow wealth as a business owner. Andrew shares how growing up in his family’s maple syrup business shaped his relentless work ethic before diving into the financial lessons he now brings to entrepreneurs from properly structuring operating agreements and buy-sell arrangements to preparing for the unexpected with insurance, estate planning, and risk management. They also explore why so many business owners struggle with disconnected financial advisors, excessive cash sitting on the sidelines, and a lack of coordination between their personal and business finances. Andrew breaks down his philosophy of protection, savings, and growth, emphasizing the importance of proactive planning and maximizing protection while minimizing unnecessary costs. [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/

In this episode, the guys sit down with Dustin Miller to break down how the digital marketing landscape is changing for watersports, tours, and activity operators. They dive into the rising cost of Google Ads, declining ROAS, the growing influence of platforms like Meta and TikTok, and why relying too heavily on Google or OTAAs can put serious pressure on your margins. Dustin shares practical strategies for combining paid advertising, organic content, CRM automation, and customer retention to turn more leads into repeat customers and increase lifetime value. The conversation also explores attribution challenges, creative testing, and how operators can build a stronger brand instead of competing solely on price and ad placement. [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/

In this episode, the guys sit down with Kyle Reed, founder of Stannect, to dive into how automation, CRM systems, and smarter technology can help watersport and tourism operators scale their businesses without adding more manual work. The conversation explores why traditional reservation systems often fall short when it comes to customer communication, upsells, follow up, and sales automation, and how CRMs and open API integrations can fill those gaps. Kyle also shares his perspective on referrals versus paid advertising, the evolving world of online reviews and reputation management, and how AI is changing the way businesses interact with customers. From small operators looking for simple solutions to larger businesses managing multiple systems, this episode offers practical insights into building a more connected, efficient, and scalable operation while keeping the human side of customer service intact.  [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/

In this FTA (From the Archives) episode, the guys sat down Kenny Hilderbrandt, founder of RentAboat.com, for an in depth conversation about the legal, operational, and insurance challenges facing the boat and watersports rental industry. Kenny shares his experience operating marinas in New York and Florida while explaining the differences between bareboat charters and livery operations, how liability laws impact rental businesses, and why insurance continues to be a major concern for operators. The discussion dives into Florida’s SB606 regulations, the Temporary Certificate Program, boater safety requirements, and how the regulatory landscape compares to New York. From navigating maritime law and protecting your business to understanding the future of boat rentals and insurance, this episode offers valuable insights for watersport operators looking to better understand the rules, reduce risk, and build a sustainable rental operation.  [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/

In this episode, the guys sit down with Bruce Rosard, Co-Founder of Arival. They dive into the biggest challenges and opportunities facing water sports operators today, coming straight out of Arival 2026 in Spokane. Kevin, Greg, and their guests discuss the growing influence of OTAAs like Viator and GetYourGuide, the importance of protecting margins and owning the customer relationship, and why building a strong direct to consumer sales strategy is more critical than ever. They also explore the rapid evolution of AI and technology, the impact of natural disasters on operators and events, and the value of peer to peer learning within the industry. With plenty of candid stories, hard earned lessons, and a healthy dose of humor, this episode is a look at what operators can do today to adapt, stay competitive, and build more profitable businesses for the future.  [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/

In this episode, the guys sit down with Joe Gratz, founder of Sandbar Joe’s, to break down how he built a modern, experience-first charter business in New Jersey by putting social media, hospitality, and customer experience at the center of the brand. Joe shares how he uses TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube to drive real bookings, why niche experiences can outperform traditional boat tours, and the challenges that come with scaling a business without losing its personality. The conversation also dives into hiring and firing, avoiding founder bottlenecks, building the right team, handling negative reviews, measuring marketing by revenue instead of vanity metrics, and knowing when it’s time to move on from people or partnerships that aren’t working. It’s a candid look at what it takes to grow a watersport business while keeping the passion and customer experience that made it successful in the first place. [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/

In this episode, the guys sit down with Chris Rozzo of Elevated Boat Club to break down what it really takes to build and operate a successful boat club in a challenging market like Lake Tahoe. Chris shares his journey from jet ski rentals to launching a membership based boat club, along with the lessons he’s learned about recurring revenue, pricing, member churn, marina costs, fleet management, and competing in an increasingly consolidated industry. The conversation also explores the rise of fractional boat ownership, the changing watersports customer, and why convenience, luxury, and service can command a premium. Packed with real world business lessons and plenty of laughs, this episode offers watersport operators practical insights into building a more predictable and profitable business. [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/

In this episode, the guys sit down with John Hemken, CEO and owner of A&M Manufacturing, and Angela Owen, COO, for an inside look at the business of building commercial boats for watersport and tourism operators. John shares the incredible story of taking over A&M during a period of financial and operational turmoil and turning it into a respected manufacturer of COI vessels, while Angela explains how the company has built systems and a team designed to scale without relying on a single person. The conversation covers everything from rising material costs and Coast Guard approval delays to choosing the right boat size, designing for multiple revenue streams, and why flexible, timeless boat layouts can be more valuable than highly customized designs. Most importantly, John and Angela share lessons on customer relationships, profitability, delegation, and building boats around the businesses operators are trying to create. [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/

In this episode, the Awkward Watersport Guys officially becomes Kevin and Greg Live, after 5 incredible years. In this milestone episode, Kevin and Greg share why they rebranded, how a podcast that started as a fun side project evolved into a thriving media company, and what's next for the community they've built. They discuss the realities of entrepreneurship, balancing business with family, avoiding burnout, and why authenticity remains the foundation of everything they do. You'll also get a preview of the biggest Port Event yet, hear about exciting new competitions and community initiatives, and learn why the future of the show will expand beyond watersports into business, investing, hobbies, and life. [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/

In this episode, the guys sit down with Shea Unti, CEO of Buoy. Insurance can be one of the most confusing and most important parts of running a watersports business. The guys discuss how the marine insurance landscape is evolving and what operators need to know to better protect their businesses. From his journey through yacht management, Boatsetter, and now leading an innovative insurance platform, Shea shares practical insights on risk management, compliance, embedded insurance, and how technology is reshaping coverage for boat rentals and watersports operators. Whether you're looking to lower premiums, better understand your policy, or prepare your business for the future, this conversation is packed with valuable takeaways you can put to work right away. [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/

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, preventing theft, team accountability, hiring and firing decisions, navigating the challenges of COVID-19, and leveraging technology to manage vessels from afar. Nikki's story offers valuable lessons on leadership, adaptability, operational efficiency, and long term business growth in the charter and watersports industry. [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/

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 like Google Things to Do are changing online bookings, and why authentic reviews, social content, and AI optimized websites are becoming essential for visibility. They also explore the future impact of AI on entrepreneurship, marketing, and business operations, encouraging operators to stay proactive, embrace technology, and build lean, highly engaged businesses that can thrive in the next era of tourism. [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/

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 break down practical paths forward from peer groups and mentorship to fitness, mindset shifts, and emerging therapies while emphasizing that real growth starts with the operator, not just the operation. For anyone looking to scale their business, improve their leadership, or simply feel better day to day, this conversation highlights why investing in your health, environment, and education is one of the highest ROI moves you can make. [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/

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 starting to impact insurance rates, improve safety through real time alerts, and even help recover stolen boats. Whether you’re running a high volume fleet or a small mom and pop operation, the big takeaway is clear: you don’t need complex or expensive systems to start leveraging data and AI just the right tools and mindset to work smarter, not harder. [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/

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 business growth, and break down how economic shifts could actually drive stronger local demand for water sports in the 2026–2027 seasons. The episode closes with one of their most practical discussions yet on AI, showing operators how to use it for pricing, scheduling, delegation, and high level strategy so they can spend less time working in the business and more time building a scalable, resilient company. [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/