FAQ

FEQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is group Y?
Who can join group Y?
Who started group Y?
What exactly do these “events” entail?
What exactly will I get out of this group?
How can I invite someone I know to the group?
Additional Questions

What is group Y?

group Y is a platform founded by action sports industry veterans by which members and industry associates can network, learn and share experiences and information. Founded in 2006, group Y holds events on a monthly basis throughout Southern California, and in 2009, is expanding its events into the Northwest and East Coast. We are primarily marketing professionals, but welcome anyone from within the action sports and/or youth marketing industries who have a thirst for knowledge and the desire to expand their own networks.

Who can join group Y?

group Y holds monthly events, many of which are open to all interested and qualified attendees, as well as members-only events. Membership is based primarily upon referral by existing members, and all prospective members are approved by the group Y board. We strongly prefer that you currently have a career in marketing in the Action Sports, Youth Marketing and/or Entertainment segments. Please see our Membership page online to learn specifics about our membership program.

Who started group Y?

group Y was founded by Liz Randall, Doug Schneider, Mark Sperling and friends in 2006. With an intent to bring people they knew individually together, they also wanted to foster relationship-building between professionals and friends within the sphere of Action Sports and Entertainment. They realized, and all have personally experienced, the power of and need for strong personal networks in this industry.

The founders also felt that there was a need for a cross-sports platform that would remain neutral and provide the action sports segment as a whole access to the vast amount of untapped knowledge sitting under our own noses—via the leaders of some of the world’s most influential youth brands.

group Y is also supported by an advisory board. Our advisory board holds members from industry companies including Oakley, Fuel TV, Transworld Media, Monster Energy Drink, Surf Expo, New Era, and other leading action sports brands.

For the group Y principals’ bios, please visit the bios page here.

What exactly do these “events” entail?

In the earliest stages our “gatherings” were primarily social networking get-togethers. Quickly we learned that people were seeking knowledge and insight as much as contacts. Our educational panels and “Innovator” discussions have featured industry leaders discussing key topics and their own personal experiences. Our expansive past speaker list includes professionals from brands such as MySpace, Quiksilver, ESPN, Verizon, Burton, Vans, IMG, Saatchi & Saatchi, Suzuki, Billabong, and Oakley among many others.

What we don’t want to happen is for the meetings to become a chore for our members, so we will always keep our easy going and fun vibe in mind.

What exactly will I get out of this group?

Well really that’s up to you. But, we’d love for you to walk away with new business contacts, more knowledge than you walked in with, and maybe even a few new ideas. If you end up meeting someone new who eventually helps you find a new job, land a new client, or even better–becomes your new partner in crime, then we’ve accomplished our original mission. We have watched members become mutual resources for each other–i.e. provide feedback on services, job openings, or to refer potential clients. By expanding each of our networks and knowledge bases individually, we strengthen our entire industry in the process.

How can I invite someone I know to the group?

If you know someone you feel will be a valuable member to our group and meets the criteria, please send them to our sign up page to receive group Y communications and to apply.