Inherit the Earth Apparel owned by Pete Meades is an environmentally conscious running and recovery wear company. Encouraging environmental stewardship in their mission, the running and activewear clothing company is based out of Holmesville and their clothing line is available online through their website, at Runner Choice Waterloo, and at pop-up shops and fun runs throughout Ontario.

At the start of the pandemic, Pete and his wife Heidi realized that their racing plans for the year would be cancelled and they would no longer be able to participate as the border closed. Instead, Pete signed up for The Great Virtual Race Across Tennesse. Pete had from May 1st to Labour day to run 1000 km and he finished the race within six weeks.

As he ran different routes throughout Huron County, he noticed the garbage that was piling up in the ditches and was disheartened. “Given that we had more time, I wanted to put together a challenge, so I came up with the idea to run every single road in Huron County and push a running chariot and pick up garbage along the way,” said Pete.

Pete found the forecasting training to be particularly helpful, “You have a vision for your business and you have your goals, but forecasting breaks down the how-tos, so you know how you can get there. It’s ever-changing, but I learned a really good step-by-step process to help me see the vision through.”

Pete also explained that he was blown away by the training components of the program. “The resources that they offer are super helpful and highlighted areas that I hadn’t even been thinking about. The training took each portion of the business and makes you better equipped to handle it. Specifically for us, we had some ideas in each area, but it takes your knowledge to the next level. And that is key for anyone starting out or who needs help updating their business knowledge. When you own a small business, things are constantly changing and the program allows you to keep learning and developing your knowledge,” said Pete.

To explore Inherit the Earth Apparel’s clothing line, visit their website at iterunning.com or follow them on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date on pop-up shops and future community clean-up events.

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