Schedule

  • Day 1 l Monday, Oct. 14


  • Day 2 l Tuesday, Oct. 15th


  • Day 3 l Wednesday, Oct. 16th


  • Check in and grab your badge and program!
    Where
    Entrance of the Holiday Inn Missoula Downtown

  • New Gear Speed Date kicks off Outdoor Media Summit with gear journalists rotating through 24 outdoor brand booths, checking out the latest gear innovations. It's a fast-paced opportunity for journalists to get hands-on with new outdoor gear, giving them the scoop for upcoming articles and features.

    Current brands include: Osprey, Patagonia, COAST Products, Korkers, Scarpa, CamelBak, NEMO Equipment, SIMMS Fishing, Nikwax, ENO, OM System, Minus 33, Mountainsmith, Teren Designs, LIVSN, Camp Chef
    Where
    In the ABCD ballrooms in the Holiday Inn Missoula Downtown

  • Whether you're wanting one-on-one support or general guidance, their team of technical experts will provide hands-on assistance to optimize your setup and strategy.

    Looking for one-on-one support? Click here to schedule your free session with an Avantlink team member.
    Wanting general guidance? Pop-in from 3-5pm in the Three Rivers boardrooms at the Holiday Inn Missoula Downtown.

  • From hunting-inspired camo sports coats and urban camo bow ties to woodland camouflage dress patterns and everything in between OR come as you are and you’ll “blend in” just the same.
    Where
    The Historic Wilma Theater

  • Join us for a dynamic breakfast session at the Outdoor Media Summit, where each table is hosted by a director representing different states. This unique format provides an opportunity to delve into state initiatives and learn insights from across the country.
    Where
    Atrium

  • 19 years ago, former Field & Stream editor, Sid Evans, entrusted a top 10-list style manifesto to Colin, in hopes that he would continue to grow the tradition of the magazine. Colin will share these secretive nuggets of wisdom to fellow media and marketing professionals at Outdoor Media Summit, while adapting some new rules that he's created to adjust to the ever-changing media landscape. While not actually editing tips, Evans' sage advice serves as a guide to any person who holds, or hopes to hold, the title, Editor in Chief.
    Where
    Atrium

  • Launching a brand campaign may feel daunting – but our expert speakers are here to break down what it takes to get your message and product in front of the masses. Brand marketing experts from Gerber Gear, SIMMS, and YETI will talk strategy on getting into the nitty gritty of consumer mindsets and segmentation, how to take a regional marketing to organically reach new audiences, and insights and tactics from YETI’s Every Single Use campaign which made a national splash across headlines.
    Where
    Ballroom A

  • Get insight on the tried and tested playbooks for propelling your podcast to the coveted #1 spot. This session will cover essential strategies from some of the outdoor industry’s most notable podcast experts – the hosts behind the Backpacker Radio, Rock Fight, and Forever Chemicals podcasts – as they share insider tips on audience engagement, content creation, marketing tactics, and storytelling secrets to skyrocket your podcast’s performance. Whether you’re a seasoned podcaster or just starting out, this session promises invaluable insights to help you achieve podcasting success.
    Content Monetization
    Where
    Ballroom B

  • Think outside of the box! Join us for a dynamic discussion on how niche marketing channels can help you reach your audience in new ways. Our speakers will discuss utilizing apps like PaddleWays’ to create authentic relationships with your audience, targeting niche audiences on apps like onX through exclusive collaborations, and the rising importance of ad placement on Reddit.
    Where
    Ballroom C

  • Ballroom D

  • It’s no secret today’s media landscape is volatile, especially for freelancer journalists and editors. But what does to stand out and keep a stronghold on editorial opportunities in the outdoor industry today? Hear from seasoned freelancers Bethany Beathard, Amelia Arvesen, and Doug Paton on topics ranging from leveraging LinkedIn to build a personal brand to using Substack for personal storytelling and monetization to kindling fresh editorial relationships that will last. Attend this session if you’re curious about what’s top of mind for outdoor freelancers and walk away with tangible takeaways and tools to amplify your freelance presence, strengthen industry connections, and thrive in a competitive market.
    Where
    Ballroom A

  • Let's talk YouTube. In this session you'll learn about bite-size storytelling, thumbnail strategy, and audience growth from three unique YouTube creators – Ken Whiting of Heliconia, Kyle O'Grady of Kyle Hates Hiking) and Gordon Crum of Grim Granite. These experienced outdoor content creators will equip you with practical insights and techniques to elevate your YouTube strategy and maximize your digital presence.
    Where
    Ballroom B

  • Deciding where to allocate your marketing budget is no small feat. Our expert panel will take their knowledge and real-world successes to illustrate strategies that will maximize your ROI.

    Chloe Moen from icebreaker will share he work shifting ad spend to reach new audiences, while Katie Hughes from Big Agnes and Ryan Andrist from Sea to Summit will walk through tools that will help you stay on budget while keeping up with emerging marketing trends.
    Where
    Ballroom C

  • Ballroom D

  • Julia Clark, Executive Director Business Development, Sports at Circana will share sales data for outdoor product categories for the fall and winter seasons. Learn about which product categories and brands are doing well, while also listening to their forecasts for the year ahead, and how you can leverage retail sales data to make informed decisions and drive revenue growth. Gain exclusive insight into the market, hear strategies for success from leading outdoor brands, and learn how you can adapt quickly to a changing outdoor market.
    Where
    Atrium

  • Spoiler: Athletes and content creators aren’t just influencers—they can be key players in the sales process too. Uncover how brands can creatively leverage athlete ambassadors and content creators to generate impactful stories that build authentic connections with customers – and ultimately drive sales. Hear from speakers representing KT Tape, Jetboil, and KAVU who will cover simple formulas for working with brand ambassadors, best practices for collaborating with athletes, and strategies for sourcing and repurposing content across social media.
    Where
    Ballroom A

  • Print isn’t dead, it’s evolving. Hear how niche publications may be the future of the medium and how today’s print magazines finding success in navigating the digital age. Editors from Paddling Magazine, Ori Magazine, and Adventure Journal will share their take on what it takes to run a print magazine in 2024 and share their predictions on how modern magazines are changing the way readers engage with media today – and in the future. This session will explore how print publications are expanding beyond familiar formats to capture attentive audiences, shift readers’ habits, and drive a resurgence in niche print markets. Attend this session to uncover the secrets of the trade – exploring how print magazines are thriving and attracting readers and advertisers with relationships that go beyond the paper.
    Content Amplification
    Where
    Ballroom B

  • Unlock the potential of AI for content creation in this in-depth breakout session on AI’s transformative capabilities for writing, podcasting, and graphic design. Hear from Sara McCarty, the founder behind Run Wild My Child, on legal hot topics for brands and creators when using AI followed by insights from Rick Saez, host of the Outdoor Biz Podcast, and Darryl Hunter, strategic brand and engagement lead of Black Folks Camp Too, who will dive into how AI can help save time, streamline workflows, and automate tasks. Whether you’re a content creator, marketer, or designer, this session will provide actionable insights on harnessing AI’s power to stay ahead in today’s competitive digital landscape.
    Where
    Ballroom C

  • Ballroom D

  • Is SEO Dead? Well, no. But, according to our speakers, your business will be if it’s all you rely on. This session will delve into alternative strategies and tactics to diversify your traffic sources. Hear from Chase Fly of Outdoor Empire, Tim Romano of Flylab, and Kraig Becker of WILDSAM and RV.com who will share their secrets to sustainable growth that doesn’t rely on SEO strategy alone. Whether you’re an outdoor marketer, content creator, or editor or journalist, discover how to future-proof your traffic in an ever-changing digital landscape.
    Where
    Ballrom A

  • Dive into the world of PFAS (per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances), commonly referred to as ‘forever chemicals,’ and their impact on outdoor brands and consumers. Discover what these chemicals are, why they’ve become a hot-button issue in the outdoor industry, and how they affect product performance and environmental concerns. Our speakers will explore the challenges and opportunities for marketing teams as they navigate consumer education about PFAS-free alternatives and caring for gear now that brands are making the shift due to government regulations and retailer policy. Learn strategies for effectively communicating product changes, addressing consumer concerns, and positioning your brand in an evolving marketplace.
    Where
    Ballroom B

  • What are editors looking for in freelancers today? Authenticity and expertise. Hear from editors at some of the biggest media titles in the outdoor industry. They’ll share their advice for how freelancers can break through the noise and build more authentic and intentional relationships with editors. From understanding the need to write in a voice that speaks to both expert and beginner audiences to writing eye-catching pitches that break through inboxes filled to the brim, this session will shed light on what it takes to make it as a freelancer today.
    Where
    Ballroom C

  • Ballroom D

  • Get your phones ready! Attendees split into teams and navigate through Missoula parks to participate in 8 different brand stations. Each station will have a unique competition (some including social media challenges) that will give participants a chance to experience the products first-hand.
    Where
    Missoula Parks + Boone and Crockett Club

  • Relax after Scavenger Hunt for food and drink at GILD!
    Where
    GILD Brewing

  • Join us for breakfast burritos and content campfires at The Trailhead. Okay, so there won't be actual campfires, but attendees will break into small groups to delve into pressing questions and challenges. This is your chance to share insights, brainstorm solutions, and explore innovative strategies on themes that impact your every day. Bring your questions and experiences to foster dynamic discussions that empower you to tackle real-world challenges!
    Where
    The Trailhead

  • Vying to go viral? Hear from a panel of notable content creators who’ve mastered capturing viewers’ attention across their unique niches – from bird watching to Colorado adventures to disc golf. Social media masterminds Spencer McKee of OutThere Colorado, Alison Kondler of Birding by Ear, and Jesse Stedman of Trash Panda will dive into insights on what works (and what doesn’t) in stopping the scroll, content creation tactics that translate across TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram, and tips for designing eye-catching and click-worthy thumbnails that drive views.
    Where
    Ballroom A

  • What does community mean to you? For our panel of speakers from the Matador Network, Overland International, and beloved outdoor brand, Sawyer, their unique communities are a crucial piece to each of their brand’s success. Hear from these community marketing leaders who will reveal their strategies for fostering engaged and loyal communities that drive brand growth. You’ll get a peak under the hood of community-building methods – from online forums and creator networks to in-person meetups – that help create meaningful connections and turn customers into passionate brand advocates.
    Where
    Ballroom B

  • Join us for an engaging presentation on the growth of affiliate marketing, with a focus on AvantLink and the outdoor industry. We'll discuss why agencies, publishers and brands are getting involved and share data on how affiliate marketing is driving revenue growth. You'll learn about AvantLink's affiliate-first approach, unique tools, and features like custom link building and advanced reporting. We'll also cover strategies for creating content that connects with outdoor audiences.
    Where
    Ballroom C

  • Ballroom D

  • What's in store for TikTok's future? So... we don't have a crystal ball, but we do have a panel of experts ready to talk through the possibilities. Our speakers will discuss TikTok's legal hurdles, ways to diversify your audience, and tools to integrate your TikTok efforts with other social media channels to create a cohesive cross-channel strategy. Perfect for marketers, content creators, and strategists, this session offers valuable insights and practical advice for navigating TikTok’s evolving landscape.
    Where
    Ballroom A

  • Lean into the art of compelling conservation storytelling. Hear from experts at leading podcasts, traditional media, and outdoor brands as they share how inspiring narratives can captivate audiences and lead to action. From learning how to differentiate your conservation story to leveraging government data to choosing relatable characters in your storytelling, this session will dive into strategies that maximize engagement, and ultimately, cultivate care for environmental causes and drive activism.
    Where
    Ballroom B

  • A facilitated discussion where we collectively explore the challenges and strategies for outdoor brands working with BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and other marginalized content creators on social media. This session will focus on real-world case studies and personal experiences, providing a platform for participants to share insights and learn from one another. Together, we’ll discuss the complexities of navigating backlash, examining both successful strategies and common missteps. Participants will engage in meaningful conversations about fostering supportive communities, managing criticism, and upholding the values of inclusivity and respect. This interactive session aims to strengthen your brand’s commitment to diversity and resilience in public relations through shared learning and collaborative problem-solving.
    Where
    Ballroom C

  • Ballroom D

  • Celebrate excellence in the outdoor media industry at the Outdoor Media Awards during our final lunch! This prestigious event recognizes outstanding contributions across various categories, highlighting the creativity, innovation, and impact of professionals in the field. We'll also announce winners of Scavenger Hunt competitions from Tuesday!

  • Adam Cramer, CEO of Outdoor Alliance, will provide insights on conservation efforts and public land access issues currently in legislation that can help grow the outdoor industry.

    Maribel Castañeda, Executive Director of Confluence of States, will discuss significant state-level outdoor recreation projects and initiatives. Her presentation will highlight outdoor recreation initiatives across the country that outdoor brands and media should be aware of.
    Where
    Atrium