An October 31, 2019, Colorado Sun article sparked a forceful backlash by the outdoor community toward the online retailer, Backcountry.com (BCDC). Their sin? The company filed for trademarks to own the word “backcountry” for a broad swath of uses and the Goliath retailer deployed its army of lawyers to slay any and all small businesses daring to use the word in their products or company name. The first lawsuit was filed on July 27, 2016 and 50 companies have fallen victim to this predatory practice. (Link to the United States Patent and Trademark Office website itemizing BCDC’s patent and trademark activities). Since the publication of Colorado Sun’s article, the uprise by the outdoor community has been swift and fierce.

This episode captures Brian and Craig’s discussion about BCDC’s actions and the recent backlash. Given Brian’s company’s name is Colorado Backcountry Adventures, his reaction and judgment are justifiably passionate. This is quite personal for him.

There’s been a flurry of discussion across the internet. Here’s a list of relevant links to the subject and our conversation:

BCDC’s (fake) apology

Facebook group Boycott BackcountryDOTcom

Kyle Frost’s article, “The Backcountry.com debacle isn't really about trademarks,” on the Outbound Collective

Both Brian and Craig agree that the crux of BCDC’s sin is their attempt to own what is a spiritual term for outdoor enthusiasts, but the pathway to their redemption is murky. Craig still hopes that the company can find its way out of purgatory; Brian prefers they burn in hell. Regardless, the two discuss what the possible avenues are to make amends.

Get to know your podcast hosts:

Craig Coleman - Website | YouTube | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn

Brian Galyon - Website | YouTube | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn