Only Friends on a Pow Day

All about that snow life! Epic destinations, the local legends, hot tips, where to go, epic stories and great adventures. We will update our listeners on what's hot, what incoming, and what's changing the game! Great for skiers, snowboarders, travel enthusiasts and just those keen to come along for the ride.

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Only Friends on a Pow Day

Ep 12 – Building Faction, Forward & Candide Skis ft. Tony McWilliam | Only Friends on a Pow Day

September 03, 2025 • Only Friends on a Pow Day • Season 1 • Episode 12

From Falls Creek lifty to founding one of the world’s most iconic ski brands, Tony McWilliam’s story is the definition of resilience and creativity in action.

In this ep, Austin and Matty sit down with Tony - founder of Faction Skis, Ghost Apparel, now director of Forward Apparel and Candide Skis - to talk about:

Starting a ski company in Switzerland with no permits or business training
The rise (and hard lessons) of Faction Skis
Why resilience, community, and luck matter in building a brand
The realities of VC money, debt, and growth in outdoor industries
The future of Candide Skis, Forward Apparel, and snow sports globally

It’s raw, honest, and essential listening for anyone who loves skiing, branding, or just a good underdog story.

#OnlyFriendsOnAPowDay #SkiPodcast #FactionSkis #CandideSkis #ForwardApparel #SnowSportsIndustry #SkiCulture #PowderDay

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