“There’s a big culture of vineyards and beaches here. Having been abroad, I saw an untapped market for outdoor recreation and adventure that would enhance the overall offerings of the region. I knew eventually someone would try and break into this market, I wanted to be the first to pave that path.”


LYNDIE IN 100 WORDS

For Lyndie Hill, CEO of Hoodoo Adventures, transforming the culture of the Okanagan Valley is about connecting her passion with opportunity. Growing up, Lyndie was surrounded with beautiful trails, stunning lakes and breathtaking views – though, it wasn’t until her travels to New Zealand that she uncovered her true love of the outdoors, as well as the potential for adventure tourism in her hometown. “There’s a big culture of vineyards and beaches here. Having been abroad, I saw an untapped market for outdoor recreation and adventure that would enhance the overall offerings of the region. I knew eventually someone would try and break into this market, I wanted to be the first to pave that path.”

COMPANY PROFILE

With rentals and tours in bikes to snowshoes, and events and programs ranging from youth to large-scale corporate events, Hoodoo Adventures provides the best the Okanagan can offer in a safe and outdoor environment. Established in 2007, Lyndie began the business with a focus on involving the regions’ kids; “If you’re going to change the culture of an area, you have to start with the kids – getting them outside and engaged with their surroundings was a priority.” From there, Hoodoo Adventures have transformed their offerings, including a membership program that emerged from the COVID-19 shutdowns. “With people unable to frequent their favourite spots, we saw many turn to the outdoors. Purchasing equipment can be costly, so we created a membership program to safely allow people to get outside and explore areas they’ve never been, whenever they like.”

WITH TEC

In spring 2019, a Vancouver TEC group came to Hoodoo Adventures for their retreat, what quickly caught Lyndie’s attention was the sense of community among the business leaders. “I was able to relate with them, being amongst other small business owners, we had similar challenges and the way they looked each other’s businesses was refreshing.”

Lyndie met with TEC Chair Shaune Eldred, who has since been an excellent resource of support and guidance. “When you’re immersed in the health of a company, you don’t always have an eye on your own health. Shaune checks in frequently to keep that balance between personal and business well-being. She’s also committed to finding different ways to support me – she recently sent me a grant application which has been critical to keep our business going.”

TEC’S IMPACT

When Lyndie joined TEC, the tourism industry was struggling heavily, coping with the fires raging through much of B.C. “TEC’s taught me the need to be proactive in uncertainty. The worst thing you can do is wait around; you have to develop strategies to work within the current situation.”

Through her small business peer advisory group, that’s made up of 12 non-competing business leaders, Lyndie has a sounding board where monthly she brings her challenges and opportunities. “My group gives me the ability to take on new challenges because the issue has been vetted by several other business owners. When you have that collective insight, you don’t feel alone in your decision making. It gives you the confidence that you know more than you think.”

Become a Member Form

Become a TEC Member today!