Tell us about how you got into skateboarding?
Older kids in the neighborhood. You know monkey see monkey do. Building a community of skateboarders was natural since there weren’t many of us, and once the skate shop opened, it brought more of us together. I’m currently back on the east coast filming with some of them for our first ever video we’re finishing soon…..
How did you come up with the name Strive Skateboards?
Strive was my “tag” name as a teenager in Baltimore. Strive was a word I related to myself because any struggles I went through I thought I made the most of a situation. “Strive” was more like “Swim or Sink” and chose to swim, I guess.
Is it hard to build a team? What does it take to be part of your team?
This is a commonly asked question on social media. Building a team of family, and dedication can be tricky. I know quickly like some people just get with it and what we’re about. Mainly we look for good people who are striving to do better in life… Looking for self-motivated individuals who are working on video part(s), riding for a shop, traveling, competing, and being part of your community. We’ve even been a stepping stone sponsor for some, which is hard at times.
With the industry being flooded with new pros that we never heard of from smaller brands. What’s your opinion on that?
It’s tight.
What makes Strive Skateboards different than other brands out there?
We have Fun
Do you or do you have someone come up with the board Graphics for Strive Skateboards?
Long-time Baltimore skate homie who went to the school for arts has been a huge help. His name is Jamie Rosier. He draws almost all our graphics, and it’s awesome that we can support him with royalties in return. Every sale supports a local artist.
Do you think it’s hard from being from Maryland & Colorado to get your brand out-there compared to some brand from Cali?
Defiantly.
Let’s say: I’m a shop owner, you come to my shop & you want me to carry your brand. How would you get me to carry Strive Skateboards in my store?
I think most importantly, the question is “Does it make sense to sell my boards here?”. It all starts with a relationship. I have a weird passion/respect for skate shops, so most of the time I enjoy catching up with skate shop owners, and employees. If it makes sense to do business with the shop, then we would talk about the best way to market our product, so it sells.
What is Ben Rothenhoefer’s day like?
Wake up between 8-9, clean the French press from the day before & go straight for the yoga mat. Got to get a routine Yoga at home class every morning. Pick a time and place where to skate, and typically spend a couple of hours working from home during the day, and in the evening. A couple of days a week I help my local skate shop (Milo sport). Working at the shop is awesome.
Thank you for talking with us & wish you the best of luck with Strive Skateboards. Is there anything you want to say to someone that wants to start their brand?
Just have fun with what you love “Skateboarding” – TZ
