HIBT Lab! Cotopaxi: Davis Smith

How I Built This · 18 May 2023 · 44m

What this episode covers

Davis Smith, founder of Cotopaxi, discusses how the outdoor gear company navigated the COVID-19 pandemic by pivoting to masks and hiking gear, achieving significant profitability despite supply chain disruptions. He details the transition to a remote-first workplace, explaining how innovation tournaments and virtual hikes maintained culture and product development. Smith also announces his decision to step down as CEO to serve as a mission president in Brazil, while outlining his vision for 'capital for good' and sustainable business models.

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