Ep. 290 "Beyond the Likes & Follows" with Brittany Jill

Social media has completely changed the outdoor industry. Today, you don’t need a television show, a magazine column, or a massive advertising budget to build an audience—you can have a phone, a story, and the ability to connect with people.

In this episode, Sam sits down with Brittany Jill from Walk2West Marketing to take a deeper look at the world of social media marketing in the outdoor industry. From brands and influencers to creators and everyday outdoorsmen and women, Brittany breaks down what actually works—and what doesn’t—in today’s crowded social media landscape.

We talk about the difference between followers and real influence, why engagement and community can matter more than a follower count, and how authenticity fits into an industry where almost everyone is trying to sell something. We also dive into the algorithms, short-form video, sponsored content, creator burnout, the pressure to constantly produce, and whether outdoor content is becoming too polished and manufactured.

Is the goal to create content for people—or for the algorithm? And in a world obsessed with likes and followers, what does it really take to build something that lasts? Join us for a candid conversation about social media, marketing, authenticity, and the future of the outdoor industry.