This episode is a conversation with Dawson Westeknsow, a seasoned product leader in the outdoor industry who has held key roles at Thule, REI, and Oboz Footwear. Now working as a professional EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) Implementer, Dawson shares the principles of EOS and how it can dramatically improve leadership, structure, and clarity for businesses—especially those in the outdoor industry.
Key Topics:
Dawson’s Journey into Outdoor Product Management From sales at a power tool company to leading product at REI and Oboz, Dawson’s entrepreneurial spirit found a home in product roles that mimicked running mini-businesses within larger organizations
Discovering EOS
Dawson was first exposed to EOS while working with a founder-led outdoor brand facing leadership dysfunction. The system helped untangle issues by introducing clarity, structure, and accountability.
What Is EOS?
EOS is a simple, proven framework to help business owners get what they want from their business by focusing on:
Vision – Clear goals and a roadmap to get there.
People – Right people in the right seats.
Data – Running the business on facts, not feelings.
Issues – Identifying and solving problems at their root.
Process – Systematizing key operations.
Traction – Ensuring day-to-day execution aligns with long-term goals.
Why EOS Works for Small Outdoor Brands
EOS helps create the kind of business where founders can finally take a vacation—because everyone knows what they’re supposed to be doing and is actually doing it. It’s especially powerful for companies with fractional or remote teams.
Real Results
From smoother product launches to founders finally stepping out of the daily grind, Dawson shares stories of transformation that make a compelling case for EOS—even (or especially) for companies under 50 employees.
What is KORE Outdoors Podcast?
Dive into insightful conversations with entrepreneurs and leaders shaping the outdoor industry.
Each episode explores practical strategies and inspiring stories to help you navigate your career in the outdoor industry.
Your host, Christian Rawles, brings 15 years of experience as the former owner of Ambler Mountain Works and his current role as KORE Business Advisor.
This podcast is a production of KORE - the Kootenay Outdoor Recreation Enterprise. KORE is a non-profit organization based in the Kootenay region of interior British Columbia. KORE’s mission is to support the growing network of gear and apparel makers, designers and entrepreneurs within the Kootenays.