David Stoddard, co-founder of Brixton, shares the origins of the company and encourages the kids to pursue their dreams no matter what.

“Do what you love, don’t give up, and always be kind.”
– David Stoddard, Co-Founder of Brixton

We love hosting Career Day tours for Rollin’ From the Heart (RFTH), a local non-profit that impacts underprivileged youth in San Diego through skating, surfing, and outdoor activities.

RFTH means a lot to us. It’s not only driven by an amazing cause, but it was founded in honor of a guy who couldn’t be compared to any other — a friend of ours who passed away seven years ago and left a profound impact on countless people. Ian “Poods” Barry was part of the Brixton family, but more than that, he was a friend to all he met.

Peter Stoddard, Director of Design, shares a bit about his work at Brixton.

Poods, as he was called, earned his nickname because of the mop of curly hair he wore, but he gained his many friends through an authentic, gentle demeanor and caring heart. John Barry — his dad and the founder of RFTH — describes Poods as having been a sweet and quiet guy who “marched to the beat of his own drum.” He was an incredible skateboarder, surfer, and so much more, so “Rollin’ From the Heart” got its name because he was always rolling on something —be it a skateboard, motorcycle, or other — and he had the biggest heart of anyone we knew.

Today, the organization gives back to local youth in honor of Poods, and we love that we can be part of it.

RFTH and John Barry.

Every so often, RFTH comes through with a group of kids, and David Stoddard, as one of our founders, shares the humble beginnings of our brand, gives them a tour of our headquarters, and encourages them to pursue their dreams no matter what. In his words, “Just know that you can do what you love. There are people who wake up every day and hate their jobs, and I’m telling you guys, you don’t have to do that. And it doesn’t matter what you do. Money doesn’t mean success or happiness. Just do what you love, don’t give up, and always be kind.”

David Stoddard, co-founder of Brixton, shares the origins of the company and encourages the kids to pursue their dreams no matter what.

The kids are encouraged to ask questions, and they’re given the opportunity to chat with David and others on our team. And of course, we finish off the time by kicking it with the kids and having an open skate session.

Here’s a glimpse into our most recent time with a great group of middle schoolers and high schoolers.

Riley Hawk stops by to hang out and skate with the kids.