Episode 247: Truls Brataas - How I Built Db

Use LOOKINGSIDEWAYS for 15% off anything from Db Journey. -- The notion of the visionary founder is the most ubiquitous of modern tropes. It is also one of the most harmful, as one glance at the madness that unfolds on LinkedIn on any given day ably demonstrates. And in a way the idea that the founder is fuelled by a weird diet, 4am starts and a particularly itchy social media trigger-finger reminds me of another toxic stereotype - the myth of the anointed creative. Both rely on this idea that these roles are only open to a particular type of borderline toxic gunslinger, operating slightly outside the margins of society. I was reminded of this during my recent Creative Exchange conversation with Db founder Truls Brataas, which I am sharing today. Because Truls’ tale is a much-needed reminder that kindness, gentleness, and a constant striving for evolution, are equally valid foundations when it comes to running a successful, visionary company. Truls’ story of how he steered Db from plucky winter sports start-up, to renowned global luggage brand, is the perfect demonstration of the value of doing things with care, and on your own terms. That’s why, if you’ve ever wondered what it takes to run your own company, harbour ambitions to begin something yourself, or have launched your own start-up, my conversation with Truls is a must-listen. Plus! A special Housekeeping Corner Db Fund update as we whittle down a record number of entries. -- To find out more about what I do, you can sign up as a subscriber to my Substack newsletter here . There's a brilliant community and much more than just the podcasts. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit

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Episode 247: Truls Brataas - How I Built Db is an episode from Looking Sideways Action Sports Podcast by Matt Barr.

This episode is 84:21 long.

This episode was published on Mar 24, 2025.

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