Getting to know... Emily Russell

Happiest when out in nature, MD Outdoors owner Emily Russell is passionate about living life fully, embracing challenges, and promoting kindness.

At the weekend you’ll find me… Wherever the adventure is! I love getting outdoors, and I prefer making my way up into the mountains whenever I can swing it. I need a good balance of inside and outside time, and being in nature is my happy place, whether I'm with others or alone. It’s where I find perspective on life. If I'm at home, I’ll be hanging out with my favourite people, playing games, enjoying food, and making the most of it.

My real-life superpower is… My determination and drive are kind of relentless. I’m the type of person who enjoys challenges and will always figure out a way to achieve my goals, dreams, and passions.

Something I learnt way later than I should have… That being a good listener is the best form of communication. I've practiced improving this skill over the last few years after realising I was terrible at it. I know that when someone feels properly heard, it makes them feel much more valued and loved.

I’m a real nerd about… Gadgets that make life easier and more functional. I don’t like wasting time, so if I can find a gadget or computer system to do it for me, I will.

A family tradition I’ll never give up... After spending loads of time living with Europeans, we started having Christmas mainly on Christmas Eve. I love it because the next day you can just chill, eat leftovers, party, and it just makes for a much more enjoyable day, I reckon.

I get my coffee fix from... Victus Cafe. Nick, Beth, and the team are awesome! Great coffee, food, vibes, and it’s close to my work.

My biggest pet peeve… Tall poppy syndrome. I like everyone to succeed and follow their passions, so this doesn’t align with my values at all.

My most useless skill is... Juggling. I dated a busker when I was younger, and he taught me how. I could do four balls, but now I can only do three.

My biggest regret is... I don’t do regrets. Life is a journey of learning. You either grow and become better, or you just get bitter—it’s up to you.

The world would be a better place with more... Love, kindness, generosity, honesty, integrity, passion, and fun.