How do you break through the noise in the outdoor industry? Join us for an engaging chat with Eric Clark, Digital Director at Gunpowder, INC., and co-founder of Okayest Hunter, as he shares insider strategies for thriving in digital marketing and content creation. From mastering affiliate marketing to launching apps and growing a podcast network, Eric reveals how to connect with audiences authentically in the hunting and outdoor space. Learn actionable tips on leveraging influencers, navigating platform challenges, and building a brand that resonates with entrepreneurs and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re a startup founder or a marketer aged 25–40, this episode offers fresh insights to elevate your digital game.

What You Will Learn:

• How to craft a balanced affiliate marketing strategy for maximum impact.
• Practical steps to grow a podcast network from the ground up.
• Creative ways to market hunting brands despite platform restrictions.
• The importance of aligning influencer campaigns with broader marketing goals.
• How to build authentic brand relationships for long-term growth.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The evolution of affiliate marketing and its role in the outdoor industry.
• Challenges and successes of launching a hunting-focused app like Outland.
• Why influencer marketing isn’t a “set and forget” strategy.
• The power of community and network effects in podcast growth.
• How AI and LLMs are reshaping SEO and content strategies.
• Navigating advertising restrictions for hunting brands with creative tactics.

Show Resources:

• ⁠Okayest Hunter Website⁠ – Explore Eric’s podcast network and outdoor brand.
• ⁠Gunpowder, INC.⁠ – Learn about their work with outdoor industry giants.
• ⁠Turning Feral by Zach Hansen⁠ – A book mentioned by Eric, diving into outdoor life and personal growth.

Quotes:

• “If you think it’s a technological tool that you can stand up and set and forget… you didn’t try shit.” – Eric Clark [00:23:00]
• “I’ve gotten more out of what I would call ROR, return on relationship, from podcasting than anything else.” – Eric Clark [00:47:00]
• “You have to be everywhere you would, and it’s just, we don’t have that kind of budget.” – Eric Clark [00:59:00]

Transcript Excerpts:

1. [00:17:00–00:18:00] “An influencer can be a content provider and have influence and drive conversion… A creator is just giving you content behind the scenes. They don’t have a large following… I value them for ad content creative because I can get content from different corners of the country for a pretty affordable price.” – Eric Clark explains the difference between influencers and content creators, offering a fresh perspective for entrepreneurs looking to maximize their marketing budget.
2. [00:31:00–00:32:00] “We launched their spring journal last year when they came back to print… We called it opening day… Everybody moved at the same time… You can’t get away from it. That’s a well-formed plan.” – Eric shares how synchronized marketing efforts can create a wave of brand visibility, a must-hear for startups aiming to make a splash.

Conclusion: 

Eric Clark’s insights into digital marketing, podcasting, and the outdoor industry are a goldmine for entrepreneurs looking to stand out. Tune in, apply his tips on building authentic connections, and share this episode with your network to spark meaningful conversations!