
Dave Munson’s wild, near-death journey from teacher to founder of Saddleback Leather is a testament to resilience, faith and the relentless pursuit of meaningful work—proving that the best adventures are the ones you never planned.
WHEN DAVE MUNSON set out to create the greatest leather bag in the world, he had no idea he would be creating one of the most respected and recognized leather brands in the world at the same time. From dodging hitmen in Mexico to getting launched into the air by a raging bull, living in one of the most dangerous cities in the world with Blue, his beloved black Lab, and even accidentally working for the mafia, it came together.
Will your family fight over your business when you’re dead? Will the kids of your customers fight over what you sold them when your customer is dead?
If not, read the true and crazy story of how Dave Munson started a leather brand with one of the stronger cult followings in the world. He has sometimes been referred to as a real live Indiana Jones but with a wife and kids. In They’ll Fight Over It When You’re Dead, you’ll discover:
• How to build a brand that people will love, trust and fight over when you’re dead.
• A different way of thinking about why you do what you do.
• Why perseverance (and a good sense of humor) is the key to overcoming setbacks.
• Healthy ways to think about your failures.
Saddleback Leather is more than a brand— it’s a faith-based mission-driven company that puts people first. So jump right in and figure it out along the way—that’s where the good times begin.matter. If you’re looking for someone who can speak from real scars, not just soundbites — you’re in the right place.
Author • Speaker • Business Coach • Legacy-Driven Leader
Dave Munson’s story began not in a boardroom but in a dusty leather shop in Mexico, with a hand-drawn sketch and a single guiding principle: “No breakable parts — I want my grandkids to fight over it when I’m dead.” That rugged sketch became the first Saddleback Leather bag, and what followed was anything but ordinary.
Over the last two decades, Dave has built one of the most iconic leather brands in the world — Saddleback Leather Co. — known for crafting gear so tough it comes with a 100-year warranty. But the real story isn’t just about bags. It’s about living boldly, leading with faith, and building a legacy worth fighting over.
From hitchhiking through Mexico to pioneering ethical manufacturing and forming partnerships with names like Toyota, MLB, and the Texas Rangers, Dave’s journey has always blended adventure, integrity, and purpose. Whether he’s mentoring entrepreneurs, speaking from the stage, or writing from the heart, Dave challenges others to live a life that lasts.
His debut book, They’ll Fight Over It When You’re Dead, is part memoir, part battle cry — a raw, hilarious, and soul-searching journey through faith, family, failure, and the art of building something eternal.
Today, Dave coaches business leaders and purpose-driven creatives who want to do more than just grow — they want to matter. If you’re looking for someone who can speak from real scars, not just soundbites — you’re in the right place.
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