Even the most epic trails come to an end, and today I can see my car in the parking lot. It’s bittersweet to share that I'm stepping down from my role as CEO of AllTrails.
When I joined the company in 2015, it was a quirky 6 person startup operating out of a beige bank sub-lease on Pine Street in San Francisco. I couldn’t have imagined that we would grow into the industry leader that we are today. That we’d create the world’s biggest community of outdoor enthusiasts. That we’d reach the top of the App/Play Store charts in multiple countries and continents. That we’d build a beloved brand that touches people at their core. That we’d win awards from none other than Apple and Google for best in class product innovation. That we’d partner with some of the most iconic US National Parks including Olympic, Zion, and Acadia. Most importantly - that we’d change lives at a massive scale by (re)connecting people to nature.
This success wasn’t inevitable. It’s the result of our people. Being a mission-driven company with both a strong sense of self and purpose has enabled us to accumulate what is in my estimation the best collection of talent in all of tech. To the AllTrails team, past and present, thank you. We wouldn’t be where we are today without your energy, intellect, and passion, and I am so grateful that I’ve gotten to partner with and learn from you all.
A special thank you to Spectrum Equity, specifically Ben Spero and Matt Neidlinger, for taking a chance on me back in 2019 and giving me the opportunity to take the reins as a first-time CEO. It has been an honor being entrusted with the stewardship of something that I value so deeply in my heart.
To our community, partners, and supporters: thank you for making AllTrails a part of your adventures. Your stories inspire us daily and fuel the team to push harder and go farther.
While saying goodbye is bittersweet, my overwhelming emotion is one of gratitude. I love this company with every fiber of my being and am so proud of what we’ve built. While I’ll no longer be at the helm, I know that AllTrails is in exceptional hands and is poised for even greater success ahead.
As for what’s next for me? I’m taking some time to reflect, recharge, and (eventually) explore new opportunities to make a positive impact. For now, I’m looking forward to deleting Slack from my phone (!!), exploring more local trails, and hopefully bagging a few more National Parks soon (looking at you Death Valley!).
Here’s to blazing new trails together. 🚶♂️ 🌎 ✨
