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Part 2 is here! with Jim Hemmingway, Head of Rentals at NZG Ski — and if you caught Part 1, you’ll know Jim brings a huge amount of knowledge and experience from the snow sports industry. ❄️

In this episode, we dive straight into why understanding equipment is so important. The right gear plays a massive role in how people learn, progress, and ultimately enjoy their time on the mountain. Jim breaks down what equipment works best for beginners, how ski systems have evolved over the years, and what really makes a difference when fitting out guests for success.

We also go behind the scenes of rental operations, what it actually takes to service thousands of skis and snowboards in a short window of time, and how that impacts the overall guest experience.

Thanks for your patience while we’ve been busy. We’re excited to be back recording and bringing you more episodes like this. Enjoy!

This episode is sponsored by snowboardteacher.com. Use the link below for 15% off the self study program.

https://www.snowboardteacher.com/?affcode=374473_ar81c2sy

We had also partnered up with BASI. The British Association of Snowsport Instructors (BASI) is a UK based membership association responsible for the training and licensing of snowsport instructors and coaches. If you have had a Ski/ Snowboard lesson in the UK, chances are you were taught by a BASI qualified instructor. If you teach snowsports or are interested in teaching then visit the BASI website for courses at https://www.basi.org.uk/ .

Enjoy the episode, leave some feedback and contact us at snowboardinstructorpodcast@gmail.com or pop us a message on Facebook or Instagram.

If you like what we do Support us @
https://buymeacoffee.com/snowboardinstructorpod

Watch and Ride
Watch and ride is a online snowboard school that allows you to take you snowboarding to new heights.

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In this episode, Alec sits down with long-time mate Jim Hemmingway, Head of Rentals at NZSki, for a deep dive into the often-overlooked world of rental gear and why it's absolutely essential for snowsports instructors to understand what their students are riding.

Recorded at the start of the 2025 winter season in Queenstown, New Zealand, the episode kicks off with a warm catch-up before exploring Jim’s journey from his early days snowboarding in the UK and working at Snow and Rock back in 2002, to moving to NZ and carving his path through the industry.

Jim shares the challenges, triumphs, and behind-the-scenes realities of running one of the busiest rental operations in the Southern Hemisphere, and how his role has evolved into Inventory Manager at NZSki. We also start to unpack the impact of the COVID season and how the gear game has changed.

Whether you're a seasoned instructor or just passionate about the snow industry, this episode is full of insight, experience, and stoke for the mountains.

🎿 Don't miss Part 2 – dropping soon!

This episode is sponsored by snowboardteacher.com. Use the link below for 15% off the self study program.

https://www.snowboardteacher.com/?affcode=374473_ar81c2sy

We had also partnered up with BASI. The British Association of Snowsport Instructors (BASI) is a UK based membership association responsible for the training and licensing of snowsport instructors and coaches. If you have had a Ski/ Snowboard lesson in the UK, chances are you were taught by a BASI qualified instructor. If you teach snowsports or are interested in teaching then visit the BASI website for courses at https://www.basi.org.uk/ .

Enjoy the episode, leave some feedback and contact us at snowboardinstructorpodcast@gmail.com or pop us a message on Facebook or Instagram.

If you like what we do Support us @
https://buymeacoffee.com/snowboardinstructorpod

Support the show

Send us a text

In this fourth episode, we’re joined by the legendary Richie Webb — a true snowboarding nomad with a story that starts on the dry slopes of the UK back in the '90s. From those humble beginnings, Richie carved his way to the rugged peaks of New Zealand, becoming a standout instructor at NZski. We dive into his journey through the SBINZ system, from student to trainer, and hear about his adventures teaching in the US, Italy, Austria, Japan, and beyond. With over 16 seasons under his belt, Richie now splits his time between the powdery backcountry of Niseko and the alpine vibes of Queenstown. Get ready for a deep dive into snowboarding life, culture, and wisdom from one of the sport’s most passionate mentors."

This episode is sponsored by snowboardteacher.com. Use the link below for 15% off the self study program.

https://www.snowboardteacher.com/?affcode=374473_ar81c2sy

We had also partnered up with BASI. The British Association of Snowsport Instructors (BASI) is a UK based membership association responsible for the training and licensing of snowsport instructors and coaches. If you have had a Ski/ Snowboard lesson in the UK, chances are you were taught by a BASI qualified instructor. If you teach snowsports or are interested in teaching then visit the BASI website for courses at https://www.basi.org.uk/ .

Enjoy the episode, leave some feedback and contact us at snowboardinstructorpodcast@gmail.com or pop us a message on Facebook or Instagram.

If you like what we do Support us @
https://buymeacoffee.com/snowboardinstructorpod

Watch and Ride
Watch and ride is a online snowboard school that allows you to take you snowboarding to new heights.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Support the show