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Legends of the BrandAuthor: Phil Gordon
A look at the people behind the brands; the characters, stories and insights that combine to make up the personality of many of the brands we know. Language: en Genres: Sports Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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Henry Druce: Trust, Testing and the Soul of Skiing - Part 2
Monday, 22 December, 2025
In Part 2 of my conversation with Henry Druce, we explore the shift from a demanding media career to a renewed, more personal relationship with skiing and storytelling. Henry talks openly about burnout, deadlines, and the moment he realised he no longer felt the spark that once drove his work — a turning point that led him to step away from traditional publishing and rediscover his love for the mountains. We also delve into his involvement with Snow Camp, his hosted trips, and the evolving challenges facing the snowsports industry today, from accessibility to generational change. A thoughtful, warm, and insightful episode revealing the human side of one of the UK’s most respected ski journalists.Follow Henry on IG @HenryskierFind out more about snowcap here:www.Snow-camp.org.uk Book your next holiday with VIP Chaletswww.vip-chalets.comGet your first or next pair of ski boots sorted in the comfort of your home with Hike and Ridewww.hikeandride.co.uk _____In Part 2, Henry Druce returns to talk about the personal evolution behind his long career in snowsports media. While many imagine ski journalism as all glamour and powder days, Henry lifts the curtain on the pressure, deadlines, and constant output that defined much of his time in publishing. He shares candid reflections on the moment he realised he’d written the same kind of editor’s letter dozens of times — a sign that the passion had dulled and a change was needed.Stepping back allowed Henry to find a more balanced, fulfilling relationship with skiing. Today he mixes freelance work, writing, and hosting ski trips, rediscovering the joy that first drew him to the sport.Henry also speaks passionately about his work with Snow Camp, a charity harnessing snowsports to support young people with life skills, mentoring, and mental wellbeing. Giving back has become an important part of his career’s new chapter, including matched donations through his hosted trips.We explore the broader landscape of snowsports: misconceptions around skiing, the myth of heli-skiers “jumping out” of helicopters, the rising cost of participation, and the challenge of attracting new and more diverse audiences into the mountains. Henry raises important questions about representation in snowsports and whether the industry is doing enough to welcome the next generation.We also discuss 333 Random Acts of Kindness, a project Henry took on during the pandemic that grew into something far more meaningful, reminding him how much connection and kindness can shape a life.The episode closes with Henry’s signature warmth and humour — from his love of flamboyant shirts to reflections on authenticity, fun, and the kind of legacy he hopes to leave.Key ThemesBurnout, reinvention, and rediscovering passionThe reality behind magazine publishingSnow Camp and giving back through snowsports333 Random Acts of KindnessHosted ski trips and a new chapter of workMisconceptions about skiingThe future of snowsports: cost, diversity, accessibilityNew ways people are discovering skiing (festivals, events)Legacy, fun, and being memorable for the right reasons
