Advertise on podcast: Awkward Watersport Guys 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/

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 pontoons, deck boats, trailers, and financing solutions directly from OEM partners, while avoiding the common mistakes that hurt profitability. The conversation dives into fleet lifecycle strategy, how to price for resale, when to rotate high hour boats, why commercial grade builds matter, and what manufacturers still don’t understand about the rental market.  [SPONSORS] - This show is sponsored by KCBK Group, 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 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 captain networks to data driven fleet growth and marketplace technology. They note challenges faced in the watersports industry including regulatory challenges, rising marketing costs, platform integrations, and managing high risk equipment like jet skis. [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 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 explore the realities of today’s insurance market, the difference between part time rental operators and scalable legacy businesses, and the massive untapped opportunity in the peer to peer boat rental space. [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 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, this is a practical, no fluff discussion on protecting your livelihood and staying profitable in an increasingly regulated environment.  [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 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 examples from operators using AI today, lessons learned from surviving COVID era disruptions, and why staying consistent with marketing especially during uncertain times pays off. [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 get candid about the real growth ceilings facing watersport operators, focusing on the often overlooked “keyman constraint” and the people problems that keep businesses stuck. From personal stories that set the tone to a deep dive on leadership, hiring loyal and coachable team members, and cross training staff, the conversation delivers practical insight for owners trying to scale without burning out. The episode also introduces peer coaching groups designed specifically for watersport businesses, highlighting how shared accountability and mindset shifts can unlock better decision making and execution.  [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 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 unpacks the realities of razor thin margins, owner operator burnout, and why repeat customers and referrals remain the backbone of sustainable operations. [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/

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 ventures, experimentation, and resilience in a seasonal market. This episode offers practical takeaways on diversification, risk management, innovation, and how to think long term when running complex on water operations.  [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 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 figures in unnecessary expenses to building smarter pricing models based on demand, this conversation shows operators how to create profit without adding more boats, staff, or stress while reigniting passion for the business along the way. [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 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 finance and operations to the importance of actively moderating and protecting a healthy community, this episode offers watersports operators a realistic, behind the scenes look at what it takes to grow a business and a following over time. [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 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, and genuine connection still outperform any script or tactic. Whether you're looking to tighten up your sales process, improve client relationships, or simply hear honest talk about what’s working (and what’s not) in watersport operations, this episode delivers it all. [SPONSORS] - This show is sponsored by Take My Boat Test, WaveRez and Granite Insurance. 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 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 place in the water sports industry. Packed with relatable stories and practical advice, this episode offers valuable lessons for operators aiming to improve efficiency, embrace collaboration, and strengthen their position in a fragmented and fast changing market.  [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 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 sales into daily operations, increase customer lifetime value, and tap into nostalgia as a marketing tool. [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/