In this week’s episode, host Scott “Sourdough” Power takes us on a personal journey into the world of brand loyalty through the lens of an unexpected favorite: The Ironman Triathlon Series. While many brands offer lifestyles, the Ironman brand epitomizes dedication and grit, offering experiences that are truly earned.
Straying from the typical conversation around tech gadgets or luxury items, Scott shares why this brand resonates deeply with him, symbolizing endurance, community, and growth. He reflects on his experiences as a two-time Ironman finisher, sharing the challenges, triumphs, and the dedication it takes to complete such an intense competition. This episode captures not just the physical aspects of the race, but also the emotional rewards that come from pushing one’s limits.
Throughout the episode, Scott explores what it means to have a favorite brand and how real commitment reflects in experiences rather than material possessions. He encourages listeners to find their own version of an “Ironman”—a challenge that fosters personal growth and a sense of achievement.
Quotes From This Episode
“What you have to sacrifice, what you have to give, what you have to do to be ready for a race, let alone finish a race, is remarkable. It sort of boils down to having a few things. You need the time to train, the will to do it, and the money to afford it.” — Scott “Sourdough” Power
“Ironman is my favorite brand. Hands down, my favorite brand. But why is it my favorite brand? Because you can't buy it. You can't buy it. You can't buy the medal, you can't buy the bragging rights. You have to earn the bragging rights. You have to earn the medal. And it's only then that you can call yourself an Ironman.” — Scott “Sourdough” Power
“The reason that Ironman is my favorite brand is because you have to do the work. You have to earn it. There is no cheating. I don't care how rich you might be. I don't care if you're Elon Musk. I don't care if you're Jeff Bezos. I don't care if you're Mark Zuckerberg. You can have billions of dollars and be the richest person in the world, and you still can't buy an Ironman credit.” — Scott “Sourdough” Power
Links Mentioned in This Episode
About Scott ‘Sourdough’ Power
Scott “Sourdough” Power is the co-founder and creative director of Crewest Studio, an LA-based arts media organization focused on visual and performing arts. With a diverse career in the creative field since age 18, Scott grew up in a musical Midwestern family, influenced by a rich church background. His early health challenges, including a near-fatal illness, instilled in him a fierce will to live and create. He earned a B.A. in graphic design and arts management from Columbia College Chicago in 1994, later completing the AIGA Executive Business Program at Yale and obtaining professional licensing certification.
Scott has held various roles across publishing, marketing, and the arts, creating brands and curating exhibitions for global companies. An adventurous spirit, he is a member of the Explorers Club and spent time in the Alaskan wilderness, where he earned the nickname “Sourdough.” Recently, he contributed to the launch of a medical NGO in Haiti and served on various boards. In 2023, Scott founded Arterial, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to helping artists share their stories and reach wider audiences.
All images published with permission of the artist(s); featured graphic: David Schwartz.