#45: Matt Taylor, CEO of Tracksmith

Today I’m joined by Matt Taylor, CEO of Tracksmith


 


In this episode, we talk about what it takes to build a brand
from the ground up, using storytelling to cultivate community,
and Matt’s ambition to make Tracksmith a generational
company. 


 


Let’s get into it. 


 


About Matt: 


 


Matt Taylor is a runner. From high school track meets to racing
cross country and steeplechase at Yale, Matt learned to relish
the challenge of competition and the delayed gratification
inherent in the sport. After graduating, Matt began his career in
the sports industry. From his first role at IMG, Matt moved
towards more running-focused positions, ultimately serving as
PUMA’s Global Head of Marketing for the Running, Training and
Fitness categories. He’s also the co-creator of Usain Bolt’s
signature iPhone game. 






Though deeply immersed in the business of running, Matt became
increasingly frustrated with the industry’s slow pace, lookalike
products and “everyone gets a medal” mentality that diminished
the reverence for personal achievement in favor of watered-down
fitness messaging. So he set out to create Tracksmith: an
independent running brand built on a deep love of the sport.
Launched in 2014, Tracksmith has been recognized by outlets like
Runner’s World, Competitor, the Wall Street Journal, WIRED and
more for “further defining what running apparel can be” and for
its “anti-Nike” approach to marketing. Based out of the
Trackhouse in Boston, MA, Tracksmith crafts products, stories and
experiences for the amateur runner.


 


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