We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Tom Pinder a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Tom, thanks for joining us today. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

Trailblazing Love was born from my own experiences, driven by the realization that relationships often lose their spark and excitement over time. As someone who struggled with planning dates, I knew it was essential to contribute more and help reignite that initial spark. Busy lives require us to make the most of our time with our partners, and that’s why Trailblazing Love’s mission is to inspire couples to step out of their comfort zones and explore the world together. Through shared adventures and unique experiences, we believe that relationships can be strengthened, creating lasting memories and a renewed sense of connection.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Coming from a background in logistics and information technology, as well as military service, my foray into the world of date nights has been unconventional. Seeking unique experiences to make the most of my time with my partner, I discovered existing options in the market but found them disappointing and lacking. While many focused on at-home date nights, I felt that post-pandemic, outdoor dates would truly create an extraordinary atmosphere.

Another concern I had was the value offered by existing date night boxes. Like any consumer, I searched for unbiased reviews and found that couples often expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of value or the mismatched subscription-based boxes they received. Thus, providing couples with choices and valuable items became my priority as I meticulously curated each box. I dedicated hours to scouting and blending together the best possible experiences. I aimed to include high-quality items that would serve a purpose long after the date, preserving memories. For instance, the included bag or blanket can be repurposed months later, serving as a reminder of that unique date night experience. This focus on choice and lasting value is something I take immense pride in.

Can you talk to us about how your side-hustle turned into something more.

Trailblazing Love is not only a business I run alongside my corporate information technology job but also a vital source of funding for its growth. Juggling a hectic schedule, I navigate the traditional 9-5 work hours, only to log off and transition to my personal computer, dedicating myself to Trailblazing Love. In the initial stages, this demanded 16-18 hour days, assembling products, refining the website, and collaborating with content creators. While things have settled to some extent, I continuously strive to improve and deliver the best possible experience. Additionally, maintaining an active blog, posting 4-5 days a week, has become a time-consuming aspect of the business, providing couples with nearby date night ideas.

Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?

As a firm believer in the golden rule, I prioritize empathy and understanding when it comes to my team members. I strive to place myself in their shoes, allowing me to set reasonable expectations, exercise patience, and remain flexible whenever possible. Specifically, I empower the woman responsible for managing my social media by giving her creative freedom without micromanaging. I also provide her with ample content resources, equipping her with the necessary tools to excel in her role. On the morale front, while she diligently handles daily posts, I emphasize the importance of prioritizing her own family and well-deserved time off, assuring her not to worry about posting on holidays. Their personal time and happiness take precedence in my approach.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://trailblazinglove.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trailblazing_love/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TrailblazingLove
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trailblazinglove/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/Trailblaze_Love

Image Credits
Jaclyn Fields