Madelyn Johnson

My Story

I grew up in Roseville, California, where I graduated as my high school’s valedictorian. For most of my life, soccer was my identity. It shaped how I spent my time, how I challenged myself, and what I thought my future would look like. When an injury forced me to step away from the sport, I felt lost. I suddenly found myself searching for something that would give me the same sense of purpose, confidence, and adventure that soccer once had.

That search led me outdoors.

What started as a way to get outside quickly became something much bigger. The outdoors challenged me in new ways, introduced me to incredible people, and showed me strengths I didn’t know I had. During college, I backpacked through Southeast Asia and Europe, exploring places like Thailand, Vietnam, Italy, Greece, and Switzerland. Traveling independently taught me resilience, adaptability, and confidence, but more importantly, it showed me the power of stepping into the unknown and embracing experiences that push you to grow.

I went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Montana State University, but some of my most valuable lessons happened outside the classroom. For two years, I worked as a whitewater raft guide, leading groups through dynamic and unpredictable environments where communication, trust, and quick decision-making mattered every day. Guiding taught me how to stay calm under pressure, connect with people from all walks of life, and create memorable experiences that bring people together.

Throughout college, I also held leadership and marketing roles within Chi Omega and spent three years at Round House Ski & Sports Center, eventually becoming an Assistant Manager. Whether I was helping customers find the right gear, leading a team, creating marketing content, or supporting daily operations, I discovered how much I enjoy building relationships and helping people connect with brands, products, and experiences they genuinely love.

One of the experiences I’m most proud of was completing a 26-day rafting expedition through the Grand Canyon. It pushed me physically and mentally, reinforced my love for adventure, and reminded me how much growth happens when you’re willing to get uncomfortable.

Today, I still seek out experiences that challenge me, whether that’s rafting, skiing, climbing, kayaking, traveling, or saying yes to something completely new. I bring that same energy into my professional life. I’m passionate about people, driven by curiosity, and motivated by opportunities that allow me to build meaningful relationships, tell great stories, and contribute to brands that inspire adventure and community.

At the end of the day, I believe the best things in life happen when you step outside your comfort zone and that’s exactly how I approach both work and life.