Teton Ridge, the premier Western sports and entertainment company, today announced it will be enhancing its leadership team with the appointment of Shawn Colo as Executive Chairman.

Shawn brings an exceptional two-decade track record of success as an operator, investor and entrepreneur building and growing businesses, which will be critical as we continue to scale. He co-founded Demand Media, an early pioneer in social content and digital media, where he served initially as head of M&A and ultimately as CEO, leading the business from start-up to its successful IPO. Most recently, Shawn co-founded 3L, a growth equity investment firm focused on consumer and technology companies, where he continues to actively manage the Firm’s portfolio through various board responsibilities.

Through the transition, Deirdre Lester will be stepping down as CEO to pursue new opportunities. Shawn will form an Office of the CEO with key longstanding members of the Teton Ridge leadership team, who bring a breadth of expertise spanning technology, business, sports, entertainment and Western culture. Together, they will lead the firm’s mission of making Western sports and entertainment more accessible and embed technology across the platform, while honoring the deep heritage of the American West.

“With the ever-rising popularity of Western media, it is an incredible time to join the brand that is leading the movement,” said Colo. “Teton Ridge has amassed an impressive portfolio of leading sports and media assets, and I look forward to working with the senior leadership team to build a lasting sports and live events franchise.”

Thomas Tull, Co-Chairman of TWG Global and Director, Teton Ridge, added: “We are a Western Sports media company with big ambitions. Shawn’s private equity prowess, focus on innovation and proven ability to build best-in-class businesses make him the ideal leader to unlock Teton Ridge’s growth potential and elevate the brand both here in the US and globally.”

Teton Ridge is owned by TWG Global, a diversified holding company led by Thomas Tull and Mark Walter. TWG Global operates and invests in businesses with untapped potential, guiding them to new levels of growth. Teton Ridge was founded in 2019, with additional investors including Jim Breyer and the Lee Bass Family Office.

About Teton Ridge

Teton Ridge, owned by TWG Global, is dedicated to expanding the reach and impact of Western sports and culture. TWG Global is co-chaired by Mark Walter and Thomas Tull, who launched Teton Ridge in 2019 with support from investors including Jim Breyer and the Lee Bass Family Office. TWG Global launched Teton Ridge in 2019 with support from investors including Jim Breyer and the Lee Bass Family Office.. Since its inception Teton Ridge has grown through strategic acquisitions and initiatives, including The American Rodeo Contender Series & Championship Weekend - live on FOX Sports, The American Performance Horseman, and the acclaimed docuseries Window to the West. Its portfolio also includes Better Barrel Races, C&I Magazine, The MauneyCast, and the Let’s Freakin’ Rodeo podcast. In 2024, Teton Ridge acquired The Cowboy Channel and Cowgirl Channel, cementing its leadership in Western sports media. Teton Ridge is also the parent company of Teton Ridge Entertainment, a film and television studio led by President Jillian Share that explores Americana stories and highlights the themes, ethos, and setting of the American West.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251103785050/en/