CALI Strong: More Than a Brand, A Force for Good

Recently, Jennifer Echeverria and I had the pleasure of sitting down and being interviewed by Roy Robertson of KUSI's "Good Business San Diego." It was an incredible opportunity to share what CALI Strong truly means to us – and it's about way more than just selling cool sports gear!

"CALI Strong is a woman-owned brand. Jennifer Echeverria, Co-Founder and Chairman, is the majority owner, and she also designs everything. She's the best sports marketing person I've ever worked with. I've been in the business for 40 years with some of the best brands in the world."

– Jim Stroesser - CEO/Co-Founder - CALI Strong

Our Mission: Spreading Positivity

From day one, Jennifer and I wanted CALI Strong to be a force for good. The world can be a tough place, and we believe in the power of positivity. That's why our mission is to "stand for something good." You see this reflected in everything we do, from the designs Jennifer creates to the community programs we support.

"I went from entry-level to CEO and I became an Industry Turnaround Expert. I did it with Oakley and Converse. And because of that, I was like, you know what? There's not a California brand. California, this is where all the athletes come from, for every sport across the country."

– Jim Stroesser - CEO/Co-Founder - CALI Strong

Empowering the Next Generation

We're passionate about empowering young people, especially those connected to the military and first responders. Whether it's through youth camps, events for those with disabilities, or helping the homeless, we believe in rolling up our sleeves and making a hands-on difference.

A Community of Champions

One of the things I'm most proud of is the incredible organic support we've received from over 750 athletes and celebrities. These folks, legends like Bill Walton and Andre Reed, believe in what we're doing. They've seen firsthand how CALI Strong is making a positive impact.

The CALI Strong Foundation

To ensure we're making the biggest difference possible, we've established the CALI Strong Foundation. This allows us to focus our efforts on supporting organizations that align with our values and are dedicated to building a brighter future for our youth.

"Fresh Start Surgical Gifts has been the beneficiary of the generosity of Jim Stroesser and CALI Strong Inc - The California Sports Company we love our partnership to improve the lives of children. Thank you KUSI News for featuring the good work they do in our community!"

– Michelle Pius - Chief Development Officer - Fresh Start Surgical Gifts

Join the Movement

When you choose CALI Strong, you're not just buying a product – you're joining a movement. You're choosing hope, resilience, and community spirit. Together, we can make the world a better place, one positive action at a time.

Thanks for being part of the CALI Strong family!

About the Author: Jim Stroesser, “The Brand Master”

With nearly four decades of experience, Jim Stroesser is a driving force in the world of global consumer branding across the sports, fashion, and entertainment industries. His journey from tech rep to CEO of iconic brands showcases his unparalleled ability to transform and elevate businesses.

As Co-Founder and CEO of CALI Strong, a direct-to-consumer sports brand based in San Diego, CA, Jim leads the charge in creating premium sports apparel, footwear, and equipment that embody the California lifestyle.

His legacy as an industry turnaround expert was cemented at Converse, where he spearheaded the brand's resurgence from bankruptcy, elevating its sales from $120 million to $285 million and finally a $305 million acquisition by Nike – a landmark deal that reshaped the industry.

Jim's expertise extends to leadership roles at Nike, Quiksilver, Oakley, LA Gear, Roxy, RL, Pony, Bob Marley and Adio. He currently serves on several boards, including SDSI, where he mentors emerging companies alongside Chairman Bill Walton.