Image of How Mike Hogan Took Hagan Skis from Passion to Powerhouse

How Mike Hogan Took Hagan Skis from Passion to Powerhouse

  • March 26, 2025
  • |
  • The Après Business Podcast

What happens when a lifelong skier buys the ski brand he’s obsessed with? In this episode, Becca sits down with Mike Hogan, the CEO of Hagan Skis North America, to talk about how his love for the sport led to one of the boldest career pivots you’ll ever hear. From storing skis in his kids’ bedrooms to building partnerships with shops across the country, Mike shares the gritty, unconventional path of growing a niche brand in a legacy industry. This one’s full of insight, laughs, and pure passion—whether you're a skier, business owner, or just someone chasing a dream.


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Quotables:

  • “I didn’t buy Hagan in 2020 during the COVID boom—I bought it after the pop. That was intentional.” —- Mike Hogan

  • “We started with nine shops carrying Hagan—now we’re at 22 and climbing.” —- Mike Hogan

  • “If you want to build a brand in this space, you have to show up. Sometimes it’s as simple as walking into the shop with your dog and your skis.”  —- Mike Hogan


What You’ll Learn:

  • How Mike Hogan discovered and purchased Hagan Skis North America

  • Building a brand in a niche industry after the pandemic boom

  • The importance of retail partnerships vs. direct-to-consumer

  • Transitioning from a career in sales to the CEO seat

  • Passion, grit, and the business of outdoor sports



Key Takeaways from This Episode:

  • Sometimes the best time to buy is after the boom—not during it

  • Getting into retail requires effort, relationships, and showing up in person

  • Your personal passion can absolutely be the foundation of a thriving business

  • Don’t underestimate the power of demoing physical products

  • Growth is possible even in legacy industries—if you modernize the model



People and Resources Mentioned in This Episode:


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