Today we’d like to introduce you to Jim Stroesser
Hi Jim, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Born and raised in Omaha, NE. Went to school to be a teacher/coach receiving BS from the University of Nebraska and MS from the University of Arizona. Started my business career as an entry level Technical Sales Rep in the sports industry with New Balance Athletic Shoes. Moved from entry to CEO in 21 years with many of the best brands in the world including LA Gear, Nike, Oakley, Converse, Ralph Lauren, Quiksilver/Roxy and Pony. I was an owner partner with the team that purchased Converse from bankruptcy, turned around the brand and sold to Nike as the merger and acquisition of the century in 2003. After a successful corporate career as a brand turnaround expert I become an entrepreneur as the Co-Founder/CEO of Cali Strong – The California Sports Company which is a direct to consumer brand making apparel, footwear, equipment and accessories based in San Diego. Cali Strong is the “Brand of Champions” with ownership and product collaborations with many champions including basketball HOFer Bill Walton, Cheryl Miller, NFL HOFer Andre Reed, Actor Jamie Foxx, Disney actor Ryan Ochoa, NBA star Norman Powell and more.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It is never a smooth road as an entrepreneur. The obstacles that you face and overcome make you a better person in all aspects of life. Tough times never last but tough people do.
As you know, we’re big fans of Cali Strong Inc and Foundation . For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Cali Strong is a small dynamic brand that successfully competes against the giants in the sports industry. We compete with innovative products like our interchangeable 3 in 1 patch hats, innovative glow in the dark apparel technology, retail entertainment interactive games and more. CS is a brand that gives back which has been a foundational pillar since inception in 2013. We have supported over 100 nonprofit charities including numerous celebrities with money, products and time. CS recently started the Cali strong Foundation to increase the level of giveback to help military/first responders families and kids organizations that stand for positive values.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
The sports lifestyle industry is a large dynamic global industry that will continue to thrive. There are many multi billion dollar brands but the consumer is always open to new products and innovative business ideas.
Pricing:
- Cali Strong is a premium priced brand with amazing innovative and quality.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.cali-strong.com
- Instagram: Calistrongusa
- Facebook: Calistrongusa
- LinkedIn: Cali Strong – The California Sports Company
- Twitter: Calistrongusa
- Youtube: Cali Strong
- Yelp: Calistrongusa
- Other: Tik tok – calistrongusa
