We were lucky to catch up with Adam Olalde recently and have shared our conversation below.
Adam, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Before we get into specifics, let’s talk about success more generally. What do you think it takes to be successful?
Success requires listening, taking calculated risks, and staying adaptable. Xtreme Xperience began when I noticed customers wanted to drive high-end cars without the financial burden of ownership. By listening to their needs and pivoting my business model, I filled a unique gap in the market. It also requires listening to your people. Learning from smarter racecar drivers and track owners on how to build a safe and exhilarating program (for novices!). Embracing uncertainty and learning from trial and error were also key; when we expanded nationally, we had to create a model that worked year-round in diverse locations. Success isn’t about knowing everything upfront—it’s about staying curious, focused, and persistent. Experiment, fail, learn, repeat.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
My name is Adam Olalde, and I’m the CEO and Founder of Xtreme Xperience, the nation’s largest provider of supercar driving, racing and lifestyle experiences. My professional car journey began in the luxury car rental industry where I realized many people dream of driving experiencing exotic cars. This insight led me to create Xtreme Xperience, where we make those dreams a reality. Today, we offer exhilarating driving experiences at top racetracks, on-road tours and rallies all across the U.S., providing professional instruction to ensure safety and fun. I’m proud that we’ve helped nearly 500,000 dreamers check ‘drive a supercar’ off of their bucket list.
Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?
Listening to customer feedback and leveraging targeted marketing and private entertainment have been instrumental in growing our clientele. Early on, we used platforms like Groupon to reach local markets, which was crucial in driving awareness. Over time, we transitioned to an in-house marketing and sales team to maintain control and scalability. We constantly adapt to business and consumer trends, whether through social media campaigns, influencer partnerships, or launching new and unique offerings. The key has been staying in tune with what excites and engages our audience to keep them coming back for more!
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
I had to unlearn the idea that perfection is necessary before taking action. Launching Xtreme Xperience taught me that success often comes from acting with confidence and learning along the way. For example, we didn’t wait for a perfect business model before hosting our first event; we adapted as we went. This mindset shift freed me to take risks and embrace growth through experimentation. Perfection is the mortal enemy of progress.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thextremexperience.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xtremexperience/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/XtremeXperience/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-olalde-70952311/
- Twitter: https://x.com/xxperience
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/xtremexperiences