Developing a Successful Skateboarding Career
Ryan Clements has taken his love of skateboarding to not just one, but two companies.
In this episode of the DLC Drop Podcast Ryan joins John to talk about his journey from owning his own lawn care company, to becoming the GM of Skatepark of Tampa.
After building an incredible reputation in skateboarding competitions, Ryan co-founded SPoT Productions, a company focused on producing skateboarding events on a global scale.
His love of the sport also evolved to co-founding Excel Management, where he manages the unique world of skateboarders. In 2013, Ryan also co-founded The Board, which creates skateboarding and BMX Events. He shares some behind-the-scenes in the world of skateboarding, and why being great on a board isn’t enough for a long career.
To connect with Ryan, you can email him at: ryan@theboardr.com
Full Episode Breakdown:
1:05 – Meeting Ryan and learning about his skateboarding background.
7:06 – Ryan and John talk about the original days of skateboarding competitions before skate parks and digital.
10:01 – Ryan talks about his career path from landscaping to skateboarding competitions.
16:16 – When it comes to planning events and contests, Ryan talks about where expectations are sometimes off with customers.
19:30 – The guys talk about Felipe Gustavo, and some of the amazing breakthroughs he had in his career.
25:32 – Ryan talks about how his business evolved to represent skaters in an agent role.
30:02 – Ryan discusses how his client list was added, and the different skateboarders he represented.
35:35 – Ryan talks about the landscape of skating sponsorship, and why it was so unique from other sports.
40:38 – Mark talks about how he works with his clients to help create sponsorship opportunities.
43:44 – Ryan and John talk about the huge increase in the talent of today’s skaters, and how others can stand out.
48:47 – Ryan talks about why just being great at skating may not be enough.
50:54 – Ryan gives some tips for skaters trying to come up to the pro level.