We start this episode with Jayne Thompson-Nolan stopping by to give us an update from the American Avalanche Association (A3). She highlights some of the initiatives and achievements from the last year, provides some member updates, and talks about opportunities for grants, scholarships, and continuing education.

We then launch into an interview with IFMGA guide Evan Stevens. Evan is the owner of Zenith Mountain Guides in Squamish, BC. Originally from New York, Evan has always felt a strong pull to climbing and skiing and landed a job with the Utah Avalanche Center after completing college in Vermont. Evan reflects on some pivotal learning moments from some influential mentors during his time at the UAC. We chat about some of the similarities and differences in the structure of guide education and progression in the United States and Canada. Evan talks about the importance of understanding the resolution of the avalanche forecast that you may be utilizing to plan your day. He describes why he and one of his partners started a newsletter: The Weekly South Coast Ski Conditions Report and how it can help local riders add value to the AvCan forecast.

We hope you enjoy!

Fill out our Listener survey here. Thank you!

This episode was made possible through the support of:

Wyssen Avalanche Control

Gordini

OpenSnow: Use code Avalanche50 to receive 50% off your premium All Access subscription!

Safeback

Music: Age Diamante

Zenith Mountain Guides

In this episode of The Avalanche Hour, host Sean welcomes special guest Jess Shade. A high-altitude ski mountaineer, queer woman, and licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Utah and Michigan. Jess brings a unique blend of personal experience and professional expertise to discuss the intricate relationship between mental health and mountain environments.

Together, they delve into the mindsets of those who inhabit the mountains, exploring therapy-based ideas that help individuals process daily events, inclusion, and trauma. Jess shares insights on the changing culture regarding mental health in the snow world, highlighting tools like the Responder Alliance’s Stress Continuum and principles from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to promote resilience and psychological flexibility.

They also discuss Jess’s work with organizations like the American Alpine Club’s Climbing Grief Fund and the Utah Avalanche Center, as well as her involvement with Utah’s LGBTQ+ community through the LGBTQ+ Affirmative Therapist Guild of Utah.

Socials:

• The Avalanche hour Podcast
• Jess Shade

Links: 

• Listener Survey

• LGBTQ+ Affirmative Therapist Guild of Utah - An organization of therapists who meet monthly for continuing education. The website has a list of licensed clinicians in Utah who are affirming and trained in working with queer people. 

• Mountain Queers - An organization supporting representation and equity for queer and trans folx in mountain sport.

• Responder Alliance - works to build awareness of stress injury and increase resilience for folks who work in austere environments. Please note they are largely focused on prevention, however many of the resources and tools are very applicable and provide a good foundation for having conversations around stress and trauma.

• Climbing Grief Fund, American Alpine Club - CGF hosts a therapist directory and offers individual grants of up to $600 to individuals who have experienced grief or trauma related to climbing, alpinism, or ski mountaineering. You do not have to be a member of the American Alpine Club to apply for a CGF grant.

• American Avalanche Association - The A3 Avalanche Resilience Project also hosts a therapist directory with folks who have familiarity with the industry. A3 also offers a "resilience grant" of up to $500 to Professional and Affiliate members who are interested in pursuing therapy.

• Survivors of Outdoor Adventures and Recovery (SOAR) - SOAR offers professionally-facilitated peer support groups for folks who have experienced loss or trauma in the outdoors. I just attended one of their community connection workshops on grief and trauma and found it very helpful. Get in touch with this wonderful organization!

• Mountain Muskox - For our northern friends, Mountain Muskox is a fantastic organization that offers professionally-facilitated in person peer support circles in BC and Alberta. They also offer a weekend gathering each fall.

Sponsors for this episode:

• Wyssen Avalanche Control

• Gordini - Use code snowpro40 to receive 40% off Gordini gear through October. (Code:SnowPro40)

• Beacon Guide Books: Use the code AVSAR to get 25% off the Avalanche Search + Rescue: A Backcountry Field Guide

• OpenSnow: Use code avalanche50 to receive 50% off their premium subscription.

Crew:

• Creator - Caleb Merrill

• Host - Sean Zimmerman-Wall

• Producer - Cameron Griffin

Donate:

• The Avalanche Hour Podcast

• The American Avalanche Association 

Music:

• Age Diamante - Chill Pah

In this episode, Harry Keane interviews one of his mentors, David Lovejoy. We introduce Harry, then turn the mic over to David as he talks about some of his memories of exploring crags, alpine peaks, and snowy mountains across the globe. David attended Prescott College, where he eventually became a faculty member and professor. In the early 1980's, he developed an Avalanche Forecasting course in collaboration with Tim Lane and Jerry Roberts of Colorado's Department of Transportation. This course set the hook for many people who have gone on to make big splashes through their lifelong careers in the snow and avalanche industry. David provides us with insights and wisdom from his years of cultivating his curious fascination with avalanches. Tune in. Music by Ketsa Thanks to: Wyssen Avalanche Control Gordini USA OpenSnow

In this episode, Kelly McNeil sits down with Duncan Lee. Duncan is a Lake Tahoe native, film maker, professional snowmobiler and avalanche educator. We talk about Duncan’s journey into the world of motorized avalanche education, group management techniques, strategies to address human factors, as well as, many other important topics! Music by Chris Kaplinski

Meet Kelly McNeil. Kelly's roots run deep in motorized winter recreation. She talks about her background, some parallels between her education and avalanche outreach efforts, and lets us know what she has on tap for her upcoming interviews. Thanks Kelly for your efforts in contributing to the podcast! Excited to hear your interviews to follow!

In this installment of The Avalanche Hour’s Third Thursday; I sit down on a Zoom call with James Minifie, owner/operator of Skookum Backcountry based out of the Yukon. He is also the lead field technician for the region with Avalanche Canada. Born and raised in the Rockies, James has lived in the mountains his entire life. His passion for the outdoors is infectious. He is a fully certified Association of Canadian Mountain Guides -Ski Guide, Hiking Guide and a Professional Member of the Canadian Avalanche Association. https://www.skookumbackcountry.com @skookumbackcountryyukon @avcanyukon Follow us on Instagram @theavalanchehour Follow our supporters on Instagram for up to date news from them. @TASBYMND @10barrelbrewing @interwest_insurance Resources on the socials @americanavalancheassociation @avalanchecanada The Avalanche Hour Savings WNDR Alpine skis 10% off: FOWFFR10-4SZB7P Do note that if you order bindings with their skis, there's an automatic 10% ski & binding bundle discount that gets applied and overrides this friends and family one. So, if you are needing to order bindings with your skis, you will have to do so in a separate order unfortunately, otherwise you will only receive 10% off the skis. Good thing is shipping is free, so no additional cost there. HAGAN SKI MOUNTAINEERING 15% off with code: AvalancheHour15 alnk.to/6bNgvJb SOCIAL CBD 20% OFF LINK: www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=ml&…908357&pw=282549 Music by Chris Kaplinski

In this episode, we sit down with former nordic olympic ski racer turned avalanche forecaster- Wendy Wagner. Wendy is the director of the Chugach National Forest Avalanche Information Center in Girdwood Alaska. She talks about some of the intricacies of the forecast center, its strengths, strategies, and goals. Music by Chris Kaplinski. Enjoy. WNDR Alpine skis 10% off: FOWFFR10-4SZB7P Do note that if you order bindings with their skis, there's an automatic 10% ski & binding bundle discount that gets applied and overrides this friends and family one. So, if you are needing to order bindings with your skis, you will have to do so in a separate order unfortunately, otherwise you will only receive 10% off the skis. Good thing is shipping is free, so no additional cost there. HAGAN SKI MOUNTAINEERING 15% off with code: AvalancheHour15 https://alnk.to/6bNgvJb SOCIAL CBD 20% OFF LINK: https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=ml&ti=908357&pw=282549

In this bonus episode, I chat with Greg Johnson. Greg has a diverse background in the world of snow and avalanches from guiding, to public forecasting, to structural engineering and project management. Greg started 6 point engineering- based out of Nelson, BC. His focus is on avalanche hazard management amongst industry within BC, and it sounds like he stays busy! Music by Chris Kaplinski. WNDR Alpine skis 10% off: FOWFFR10-4SZB7P Do note that if you order bindings with their skis, there's an automatic 10% ski & binding bundle discount that gets applied and overrides this friends and family one. So, if you are needing to order bindings with your skis, you will have to do so in a separate order unfortunately, otherwise you will only receive 10% off the skis. Good thing is shipping is free, so no additional cost there. HAGAN SKI MOUNTAINEERING 15% off with code: AvalancheHour15 https://alnk.to/6bNgvJb SOCIAL CBD 20% OFF LINK: https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=ml&ti=908357&pw=282549

On February 28, 2014, an avalanche was triggered on Mt. Jumbo- above the Rattlesnake neighborhood in Missoula, Montana. It destroyed a house, and buried 2 adults and a child. This episode is the perspective of three of the many first responders on the scene of this rescue. Music is written and performed by Chris Kaplinski. This episode was produced by Wes Gregg. WNDR Alpine skis 10% off: FOWFFR10-4SZB7P Do note that if you order bindings with their skis, there's an automatic 10% ski & binding bundle discount that gets applied and overrides this friends and family one. So, if you are needing to order bindings with your skis, you will have to do so in a separate order unfortunately, otherwise you will only receive 10% off the skis. Good thing is shipping is free, so no additional cost there. HAGAN SKI MOUNTAINEERING 15% off with code: AvalancheHour15 https://alnk.to/6bNgvJb SOCIAL CBD 20% OFF LINK: https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=ml&ti=908357&pw=282549

In episode 5.17 Part 2 of The Avalanche Hour’s Third Thursday; Dom Baker continues his Zoom call with Grant Helgeson. Grant is a Senior Forecaster and Project Manager for Avalanche Canada who makes good decisions 99% of the time. If he’s not at work or playing in the hills, he’s probably lusting after fancy bikes or Google Earth skiing your favourite lines. Dom and Grant discuss his path into Avalanche forecasting and the challenges it presents in data sparse regions. There’s so much covered that we’ve broken the release into two parts. To find out more about Grant, or information about Avalanche canada head on over to: Avalanche.ca @avalanchecanada - Instagram While you’re there check out the latest forecast for your region Don’t forget to give us a follow on socials: @theavalanchehourpodcast Tag us in a post before March 15, 2021 and be entered in a draw for a Primo Snow and Avalanche ‘El-Profesional’ snow saw. #theavalanchehourpodcast Check out our latest deals: WNDR Alpine skis 10% off: FOWFFR10-4SZB7P Do note that if you order bindings with their skis, there's an automatic 10% ski & binding bundle discount that gets applied and overrides this friends and family one. So, if you are needing to order bindings with your skis, you will have to do so in a separate order unfortunately, otherwise you will only receive 10% off the skis. Good thing is shipping is free, so no additional cost there. HAGAN SKI MOUNTAINEERING 15% off with code: AvalancheHour15 https://alnk.to/6bNgvJb SOCIAL CBD 20% OFF LINK: https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=ml&ti=908357&pw=282549 Theme music by: @chriskaplinski Episode produced by: @wesleylgregg Artwork by: Mike Tee

In episode 5.17 Part 1 of The Avalanche Hour’s Third Thursday; Dom Baker sits down for a Zoom call with Grant Helgeson. Grant is a Senior Forecaster and Project Manager for Avalanche Canada who makes good decisions 99% of the time. If he’s not at work or playing in the hills, he’s probably lusting after fancy bikes or Google Earth skiing your favourite lines. Dom and Grant discuss his path into Avalanche forecasting and the challenges it presents in data sparse regions. There’s so much covered that we’ve broken the release into two parts. To find out more about Grant, or information about Avalanche canada head on over to: Avalanche.ca @avalanchecanada - Instagram While you’re there check out the latest forecast for your region Don’t forget to give us a follow on socials: @theavalanchehourpodcast Tag us in a post before March 15, 2021 and be entered in a draw for a Primo Snow and Avalanche ‘El-Profesional’ snow saw. #theavalanchehourpodcast Check out our latest deals: WNDR Alpine skis 10% off: FOWFFR10-4SZB7P Do note that if you order bindings with their skis, there's an automatic 10% ski & binding bundle discount that gets applied and overrides this friends and family one. So, if you are needing to order bindings with your skis, you will have to do so in a separate order unfortunately, otherwise you will only receive 10% off the skis. Good thing is shipping is free, so no additional cost there. HAGAN SKI MOUNTAINEERING 15% off with code: AvalancheHour15 https://alnk.to/6bNgvJb SOCIAL CBD 20% OFF LINK: https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=ml&ti=908357&pw=282549 Theme music by: @chriskaplinski Episode produced by: @wesleylgregg Artwork by: Mike Tee

Please welcome Dominic Baker to The Avalanche Hour Podcast Guest Host rotation. Dom is from Nelson, BC. He has worked as a ski patroller and forecaster for Whitewater Ski Resort. He has taught the Canadian Avalanche Association Operations Level 1 courses, and he currently works for the BC Ministry of Transportation. He brings a wealth and diversity of experience to the team, and we are glad he is working with us. Tune in to his first two part episode (5.17) where he interviews Grant Helgeson. Enjoy

In this first contribution from our European correspondent, Matthias Walcher interviews JT Fischer and Chris Mitterer, who are the President and Vice President of the ÖGSL or the Austrian Association for Snow and Avalanches- an organization that was founded during the Innsbruck ISSW in 2018. They educate us to the purpose and goals of their organization. We appreciate your contribution, and look forward to more in the future! Music by Chris Kaplinski Avalanche Forecast Survey Link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSce3p0PnkC2_IYdehrynme6cU-4uU55I_Z_ljrPavqKC7XBWQ/viewform WNDR Alpine skis 10% off: FOWFFR10-4SZB7P Do note that if you order bindings with their skis, there's an automatic 10% ski & binding bundle discount that gets applied and overrides this friends and family one. So, if you are needing to order bindings with your skis, you will have to do so in a separate order unfortunately, otherwise you will only receive 10% off the skis. Good thing is shipping is free, so no additional cost there. HAGAN SKI MOUNTAINEERING 15% off with code: AvalancheHour15 https://alnk.to/6bNgvJb SOCIAL CBD 20% OFF LINK: https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=ml&ti=908357&pw=282549

Episode 8.23 John “Buff” Buffery John “Buff” Buffery has had a long and diverse career in avalanche and mountain risk management, spending time at ski hills, guiding, risk management for highways, movie rigging, and much more. From ski guiding on tele skis back in the early days of his career to building his own split board in the 90s - Buff has pioneered his own path in the mountains. He was Craig Kelly’s personal guide for much of his career, and has guided and mentored the likes of Travis Rice, Robin Van Gyn, and many others over the years. He brings a thoughtful and reflective approach to risk management; a personal style that has accompanied him while pioneering new guiding operations in remote terrain, or rigging stunts for the latest Hollywood blockbuster. Tune in for lessons learned and philosophies developed over a rich life in the mountains. Buff talks about avalanche education for pro snowboarders, the evolution of a path into guiding for snowboarders, and longevity in a physically taxing career – and so much more. Enjoy! Sponsors for this episode: Wyssen : https://www.wyssenavalanche.com/en/ Gordini - www.gordini.com OpenSnow - www.opensnow.com Crew: Host - Dom Baker Producer - Cameron Griffin - https://www.instagram.com/backcountrycam/ Donate: The Avalanche Hour Podcast - https://www.theavalanchehour.com/donate The American Avalanche Association - https://www.americanavalancheassociation.org/donate Music: Gravy - @gravy.tunes

In this episode, we hear from Alex Ibbotson- owner of Canada Backcountry Services. We talk about Alex's background and her hopes to integrate into (and change the narrative about) the dominant culture of the avalanche world as a female motorized professional. This is a great episode. Enjoy. Music by Chris Kaplinski. www.tobeouterwear.com www.bcufoundation.org WNDR Alpine skis 10% off: FOWFFR10-4SZB7P Do note that if you order bindings with their skis, there's an automatic 10% ski & binding bundle discount that gets applied and overrides this friends and family one. So, if you are needing to order bindings with your skis, you will have to do so in a separate order unfortunately, otherwise you will only receive 10% off the skis. Good thing is shipping is free, so no additional cost there. HAGAN SKI MOUNTAINEERING 15% off with code: AvalancheHour15 https://alnk.to/6bNgvJb SOCIAL CBD 20% OFF LINK: https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=ml&ti=908357&pw=282549

In this episode, we chat with Tom Murphy. Tom was one of the people to start AIARE (American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education). Tom talks about his early days of backcountry skiing and exploration in Alaska. We chat about how AIARE came to be, and how it has evolved over time. Music by Chris Kaplinski. Avalanche Forecast Survey Link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSce3p0PnkC2_IYdehrynme6cU-4uU55I_Z_ljrPavqKC7XBWQ/viewform WNDR Alpine skis 10% off: FOWFFR10-4SZB7P Do note that if you order bindings with their skis, there's an automatic 10% ski & binding bundle discount that gets applied and overrides this friends and family one. So, if you are needing to order bindings with your skis, you will have to do so in a separate order unfortunately, otherwise you will only receive 10% off the skis. Good thing is shipping is free, so no additional cost there. HAGAN SKI MOUNTAINEERING 15% off with code: AvalancheHour15 https://alnk.to/6bNgvJb SOCIAL CBD 20% OFF LINK: https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=ml&ti=908357&pw=282549

In this installment of The Avalanche Hour’s Third Thursday; I sit down on a Zoom call with one of the authors of the Avalanche Skills Training Handbook, Keith Robine. This handbook is utilized by Avalanche Canada course providers for the AST 1 & 2 Courses. Keith has been teaching avalanche education for the better part of 30 years. The owner/operator of Kootanayavalanchecourses.com, Keith has just finished the new curriculum for the AST 2 course. @Kootanayavalanchecourses www.Kootanayavalanchecourses.com Follow us on Instagram @theavalanchehour Follow our supporters on Instagram for up to date news from them. @TASBYMND @10barrelbrewing @interwest_insurance Resources on the socials @americanavalancheassociation @avalanchecanada The Avalanche Hour Savings WNDR Alpine skis 10% off: FOWFFR10-4SZB7P Do note that if you order bindings with their skis, there's an automatic 10% ski & binding bundle discount that gets applied and overrides this friends and family one. So, if you are needing to order bindings with your skis, you will have to do so in a separate order unfortunately, otherwise you will only receive 10% off the skis. Good thing is shipping is free, so no additional cost there. HAGAN SKI MOUNTAINEERING 15% off with code: AvalancheHour15 alnk.to/6bNgvJb SOCIAL CBD 20% OFF LINK: www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=ml&…908357&pw=282549

Caleb sits down with John Mletschnig in this episode. John has a wealth of experience having been a ski patroller in Utah and New Zealand, a heli ski guide in Alaska and Utah, and now an AMGA certified Rock and Ski Guide owning Bakcountry Pros- a guiding outfit operating in the High Uinta, Wasatch, and Oquirrh Mountains of Utah. We talk about avalanche education, the state of the guiding industry in Utah, how scarcity may affect our decision making in the backcountry, and John shares some lessons learned. Music written and performed by Chris Kaplinski. WNDR Alpine skis 10% off: FOWFFR10-4SZB7P Do note that if you order bindings with their skis, there's an automatic 10% ski & binding bundle discount that gets applied and overrides this friends and family one. So, if you are needing to order bindings with your skis, you will have to do so in a separate order unfortunately, otherwise you will only receive 10% off the skis. Good thing is shipping is free, so no additional cost there. HAGAN SKI MOUNTAINEERING 15% off with code: AvalancheHour15 https://alnk.to/6bNgvJb SOCIAL CBD 20% OFF LINK: https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=ml&ti=908357&pw=282549

In Episode 5.11, we sit down with Matt Primomo. Matt talks about his journey as a snow and avalanche professional- within the various roles of forecasting, guiding, and educating. His humble approach to working with and learning from snowy mountains lends lessons to all of us. Enjoy. Music by Ketsa. WNDR Alpine skis 10% off: FOWFFR10-4SZB7P Do note that if you order bindings with their skis, there's an automatic 10% ski & binding bundle discount that gets applied and overrides this friends and family one. So, if you are needing to order bindings with your skis, you will have to do so in a separate order unfortunately, otherwise you will only receive 10% off the skis. Good thing is shipping is free, so no additional cost there. HAGAN SKI MOUNTAINEERING 15% off with code: AvalancheHour15 https://alnk.to/6bNgvJb SOCIAL CBD 20% OFF LINK: https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=ml&ti=908357&pw=282549

Gabrielle Antonioli is featured on this episode. Gabrielle is a native Montanan, who decided to move to Bozeman for an undergraduate degree, had many great days skiing in Hyalite Canyon, and decided to dive into a Master's degree in snow science with a research question centered around Understanding Spatial Variability of Snowfall in a Mountain Catchment. Gabrielle tells us about her field work as well as about some of her passion for taking an educators role in avalanche education. Music by Ketsa Links to Save you Money! WNDR Alpine skis 10% off: FOWFFR10-4SZB7P Do note that if you order bindings with their skis, there's an automatic 10% ski & binding bundle discount that gets applied and overrides this friends and family one. So, if you are needing to order bindings with your skis, you will have to do so in a separate order unfortunately, otherwise you will only receive 10% off the skis. Good thing is shipping is free, so no additional cost there. HAGAN SKI MOUNTAINEERING 15% off with code: AvalancheHour15 https://alnk.to/6bNgvJb SOCIAL CBD 20% OFF LINK: https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=ml&ti=908357&pw=282549

In this instalment of The Avalanche Hour’s Third Thursday, I sit down on a Zoom call with an iconic couple out of Prince George, BC. Craig Evanoff and Bonnie Hooge the owner operators of Dezaiko lodge; a beautiful rustic lodge based in the northern Rockies. They have been backcountry adventuring for 30 years and recently Craig released a book with Brett St. Clair called ‘Tips for Beginning Backcountry Skiers’. Craig is an ACMG guide and AST course provider for the northern portion of British Columbia. @dezaikolodge www.Dezaiko.com You tired that old weak saw in your pack? Check out the El Professional snow saw from Primo Snow and Avalanche. They are offering 10% off for The Avalanche Hour Podcast listeners with code: TAH10 when used at checkout. Just head on over to www.primosnowavalanche.com and pick up the saw that cuts straight and is light weight. Don’t forget to give them a follow as well @primosnowandavalanche to stay up to date. Also, take a screenshot of your subscription to this podcast to get entered in a draw for one of these saws. The winner will be announced during the Jan 5, 2021 episode with Matt Primono. Follow us on Instagram @theavalanchehour Follow our supporters on Instagram for up to date news from them. @TASBYMND @10barrelbrewing @interwest_insurance Resources on the socials @americanavalancheassociation @avalanchecanada The Avalanche Hour Savings WNDR Alpine skis 10% off: FOWFFR10-4SZB7P Do note that if you order bindings with their skis, there's an automatic 10% ski & binding bundle discount that gets applied and overrides this friends and family one. So, if you are needing to order bindings with your skis, you will have to do so in a separate order unfortunately, otherwise you will only receive 10% off the skis. Good thing is shipping is free, so no additional cost there. HAGAN SKI MOUNTAINEERING 15% off with code: AvalancheHour15 https://alnk.to/6bNgvJb SOCIAL CBD 20% OFF LINK: https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=ml&ti=908357&pw=282549

Dave Richards runs the avalanche office at Alta Ski Area in Little Cottonwood Canyon of Northern Utah. His father was a ski patroller at Alta. He grew up there and has a deep sense of connection to the place. He shares some of the collective wisdom that has been cultivated in the snow and avalanche community of LCC since the 1930’s. Dave talks about tools in the toolbox for managing the avalanche hazard at the ski area as he gives a glimpse into a storm morning in LCC. I think this is probably a must listen for any ski patroller out there. You’ll like it…. Check out this great video about the Alta Ski Patrol: https://www.powder.com/videos/watch-a-day-in-the-life-of-an-alta-ski-patroller/ Theme Music in the start of the show: Fascination by Chris Kaplinski. Eyes on Me by Ketsa takes us out of the hour. Artwork by Mike Tea: www.miketea.com WNDR Alpine skis 10% off: FOWFFR10-4SZB7P Do note that if you order bindings with their skis, there's an automatic 10% ski & binding bundle discount that gets applied and overrides this friends and family one. So, if you are needing to order bindings with your skis, you will have to do so in a separate order unfortunately, otherwise you will only receive 10% off the skis. Good thing is shipping is free, so no additional cost there. HAGAN SKI MOUNTAINEERING 15% off with code: AvalancheHour15 https://alnk.to/6bNgvJb SOCIAL CBD 20% OFF LINK: https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=ml&ti=908357&pw=282549

Here's a bonus episode to help wind down the craziest year! I sat down with Chip Arenchild in the spring and discussed risk in several different contexts. I share this conversation in this episode. Music by Ketsa: Dusty Hills and Funky Fortune. WNDR Alpine skis 10% off: FOWFFR10-4SZB7P Do note that if you order bindings with their skis, there's an automatic 10% ski & binding bundle discount that gets applied and overrides this friends and family one. So, if you are needing to order bindings with your skis, you will have to do so in a separate order unfortunately, otherwise you will only receive 10% off the skis. Good thing is shipping is free, so no additional cost there. HAGAN SKI MOUNTAINEERING 15% off with code: AvalancheHour15 https://alnk.to/6bNgvJb SOCIAL CBD 20% OFF LINK: https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=ml&ti=908357&pw=282549

I have always thought Margaret Wheeler could introduce herself as “I’m Margaret Wheeler and you may remember me from such eduational videos as “ Track Setting- Improving the skin track” or “Sled Rescue Drill” Think Troy McClure from the Simpsons…https://youtu.be/Y6jSKetRBU0. Or perhaps you recognize her name as one of the authors of Backcountry Skiing: Skills for Ski Touring and Ski Mountaineering. In this episode, IFMGA certified mountain guide, educator, and mother of 2, Margaret Wheeler sits down for a great chat- There is some solid insight in this one. Music: Parrallel Worlds by Ketsa and Ascend Dub by Shoalin Dub. WNDR Alpine skis 10% off: FOWFFR10-4SZB7P Do note that if you order bindings with their skis, there's an automatic 10% ski & binding bundle discount that gets applied and overrides this friends and family one. So, if you are needing to order bindings with your skis, you will have to do so in a separate order unfortunately, otherwise you will only receive 10% off the skis. Good thing is shipping is free, so no additional cost there. HAGAN SKI MOUNTAINEERING 15% off with code: AvalancheHour15 https://alnk.to/6bNgvJb SOCIAL CBD 20% OFF LINK: https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=ml&ti=908357&pw=282549

In this episode, Caleb sits down with Ethan Greene, Director of the Colorado Avalanche Information Center. It is the CAIC’s 50th anniversary this year, and we are happy to have Ethan on the show to celebrate it. Ethan has truly blended the theory and practice of snow and avalanche work through academia and research coupled with his career as a ski patroller-turned avalanche forecaster. We chat about the extensive history of the CAIC and some of the strategies that his team employs including the decision to use flexible forecast zones and the implementation of a stress resiliency program. Music provided by Gravy. https://gravytunes.bandcamp.com Want to hear more about the history of CAIC? Listen to my interview with Knox Williams: https://on.soundcloud.com/FstGgd9Az3zmFrnF7

Welcome to the first Third Thursday with Wes Gregg. In this episode I talk with Kyle Lamothe who is a park rat from the icy slopes of northern Ontario, Canada turned Ski Mountaineer. He packed up and relocated to the Canadian rockies before finally settling into a little ski town called Revelstoke, British Columbia. After gaining an education and establishing a career in hospitality, Kyle took a single trip to Sol Mountain Lodge. Upon his return he ditched the suit and tie, and embarked on his path as a ski guide. Due to the current global pandemic, Kyle’s progress was significantly impacted. He finds himself now in limbo in the hopes of being able complete his ACMG guide exam this winter. Kyle spends 100+ days a season ski touring recreationally, as well as Tail guiding at Sol Mountain Lodge. Also this episode we introduce the El Professional snow saw from Primo Snow and Avalanche by offering a 10% off discount code: TAH10 when used at checkout. Just head on over to www.primosnowavalanche.com and pick up the saw that cuts straight and is light weight. Don’t forget to give them a follow as well @primosnowandavalanche Also, take a screenshot of your subscription to this podcast to get entered in a draw for one of these saws. The winner will be announced during the Jan 5, 2021 episode with Matt Primono. Follow us on Instagram @theavalanchehour Follow our supporters on Instagram for up to date news from them. @TASBYMND @10barrelbrewing @interwest_insurance Resources on the socials @americanavalancheassociation @avalanchecanada

We sit done sit down to talk with Wesley Gregg of Williams Lake, BC. Wes reached out to me this spring, and told me how he wanted to start a podcast related to snow avalanches and then he found The Avalanche Hour. He also has a background in audio engineering! We had a quarantine video chat, and he told me about some of his backcountry ventures. Wes and his ski partners often will sled into remote cabins to go skiing for the weekend. He recounts a couple of close calls that have helped shape his current risk tolerance and communication strategies. This is bits and pieces of our conversation, but I find it to be an honest reflection of a ski touring career thus far. Wes digs into some deep honesty and I think there is something for everyone in this one. Music: In My City by Grammatik, My Tribe by Ketsa, and SkankingEasy Dub by Shoalin Dub. https://beaconreviews.com/Specs_PiepsDSP_switch.php https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4E2uPY8IX0

We sit down to chat with Henry Munter and Rich Peterson from Chugach Powder Guides. We discuss what some of the aspects of their jobs look like from the guide meetings to the logistics of having multiple aircraft throughout the Chugach range. We talk strategy to deal with uncertainty and get a couple of great stories out of da boys. I know you'll dig it. www.chugachpowderguides.com Music by Ketsa and Shoalin dub. www.ketsa.uk

We start out episode 5.2 by hearing an update from the A3 Executive Director, Dan Kaveney. Dan talks about what is new for A3 in the 20/21 season. We then dive into a great talk with Laura McGladrey. Laura is a family and psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who specializes in emergency medicine, mental health, and traumatic stress. She is a veteran NOLS instructor, is embedded on a couple ski patrols, works with high level search and rescue groups in national parks, and is an avid outdoor recreator. We talk about what factors can contribute to what are known as Stress Injuries and how we can better detect and deal with them. This can certainly be a tough subject to broach, but Laura does a great job in breaking it down. There are some other resources noted in the episode that are referenced below. Music on this episode by Chris Kaplinski and Ketsa. • Pre-Traumatic Stress Management Article by Starr Jamison The Avalanche Review Page 30: https://static1.squarespace.com/static/59d2a0f0e9bfdf20d6d654b7/t/5e909a92af304074e895eae8/1586535077740/TAR_38-4_Low.pdf • American Alpine Club Climbing Grief Fund https://americanalpineclub.org/grieffund • Responder Alliance Resources https://www.responderalliance.com/copy-of-urban-fire-ems - Trauma Screening Questionaire https://www.everyonegoeshome.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2014/04/FLSI13TSQ.pdf

In the season opener of Season 5, we chat with a pioneer of mechanized avalanche education. Mike Duffy has been teaching mechanized specific avalanche education for over 25 years. Mike is also a product developer and ambassador for Backcountry Access. We review the proper way to do a trailhead beacon check, talk about how COVID may impact the backcountry, and some ways mechanized users can implement better group management. Music: Strapped and Growing Resistance by Shoalin Dub as well as Hot-Box by Ketsa. Enjoy!

In the final episode of Season 4, I chat with Susan Purvis. Susan is an explorer, educator and author of the bestselling adventure memoir, Go Find: My Journey to Find the Lost—And Myself. I talk with Susan about the book, and her experience as an avalanche dog handler in Crested Butte Colorado. She explains the process she went through to certify her canine, Tasha....But even more, she talks about the aspects of dealing with small town politics, mentorship, personal relationships, all will finding a truer version of her self. Music by Ketsa: One Eye. Shaolin Dub: Sunlight Dub. www.susanpurvis.com

Episode 4.21 features Andrew Schauer. Andrew completed the undergraduate and graduate degrees in the Snow Science Program of the Earth Science Department at Montana State University. Andrew talks to us about how his research could help the snow and avalanche community better understand what climatic patterns are leading to destructive deep slab cycles. He talks about an efficient way to process large data sets, as well as a couple close calls that left his hair standing up. Musical tracks: Morning Cup by Ketsa and Blessed by Shaolin Dub. Enjoy.

It's episode 4.20, man. This episode features Alex Marienthal. Alex obtained both BS and MS degrees in the Snow Science Program at Montana State University. We chat with Alex about his graduate research regarding better forecasting for deep slab avalanches. Alex shares with us some of the ways he tries to communicate complex problems in a concise way within his forecasts. He also recounts some experiences in his career that he doesn't plan on forgetting. Hope you enjoy. Music by Ketsa

This episode highlights Kevin Hammonds. Kevin is a professor at Montana State University in the Civil Engineering department. He is also the current director of the Sub Zero Lab at MSU. Kevin is a great example of someone who is dedicated to merging theory and practice within our field of interest and curiosity. Kevin dives into what is involved in the lab, and some of the interesting research that is going on as well. Tunes by Ketsa: "Thinking Free" and "Peace Out".

In this episode, we highlight an interview with Dr. Jerry Johnson, a political science professor at Montana State University. We talk about some of the factors that Jerry feels like are contributing to good decision making in backcountry winter sports. He talks about his involvement with the White Heat Project, and how we can learn about making decisions from other professions, and much more. Music on this track: "Wizard" by Sunsquabi and "Afternoon Soul" by Gramatik. Link to White Heat Project

It's been a rough week. I hope you can smile while remembering Matt Primomo through listening to our interview from a few years ago. We lost another great human and avalanche professional last week- Nick Burks. A call to action of our community to reach out to The Avalanche Hour with stories of Nick that can be recorded and put together into a podcast episode. Email theavalanchehourpodcast@gmail.com to find out how to get involved. Music by Ketsa. https://ketsa.uk/ Go Fund Me for Stella and Milo: https://www.gofundme.com/f/supporting-stella-and-milo Resources for Grief and Support: Thanks to the help of Erin Good of Updraft Counseling for providing these descriptions. Responder Alliance - works to build awareness of stress injury and increase resilience for folks who work in austere environments. Please note they are largely focused on prevention, however many of the resources and tools are very applicable and provide a good foundation for having conversations around stress and trauma. https://www.responderalliance.com/ Climbing Grief Fund, American Alpine Club - CGF hosts a therapist directory and offers individual grants of up to $600 to individuals who have experienced grief or trauma related to climbing, alpinism, or ski mountaineering. You do not have to be a member of the American Alpine Club to apply for a CGF grant. https://americanalpineclub.org/grieffund American Avalanche Association - The A3 Avalanche Resilience Project also hosts a therapist directory with folks who have familiarity with the industry. A3 also offers a "resilience grant" of up to $500 to Professional and Affiliate members who are interested in pursuing therapy. https://www.americanavalancheassociation.org/resilience-project Survivors of Outdoor Adventures and Recovery (SOAR) - SOAR offers professionally-facilitated peer support groups for folks who have experienced loss or trauma in the outdoors. I just attended one of their community connection workshops on grief and trauma and found it very helpful. Get in touch with this wonderful organization! http://soar4life.org/ Mountain Muskox - For our northern friends, Mountain Muskox is a fantastic organization that offers professionally-facilitated in person peer support circles in BC and Alberta. They also offer a weekend gathering each fall. https://www.mountainmuskox.com/ The Redside Foundation - Redside provides funding for guides who are in need of medical or mental health care. They do not provide counseling directly, but rather they will pay for up to eight therapy sessions for guides in need. While they focus on individuals who live in Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming. If you don't live in one of these states, don't let it stop you from getting in touch. They will help! https://www.redsidefoundation.org/ Bigger Than The Trail - BTTT is an organization that uses trail running as a platform to talk about mental health. They also offer scholarships to folks who experience financial barriers to individual therapy. BTTT will pay for up to eight therapy sessions, however please note they do not have a directory - they work with existing platforms such as BetterHelp or Calmerry, so the therapist may or may not have a familiarity with outdoor / backcountry pursuits. Still, it is a great option for someone who needs support. https://www.bttt.run/support

In this episode, we chat with Dr. Jordy Hendrikx- Director of the Snow and Avalanche Lab at Montana State University. Jordy talks about the path that led him to his current role at MSU. He talks about what a potential applicant might want to focus on before starting an application to the program. We also chat about some of the current research going on in the program as well as the high caliber employment that graduates are finding in the snow and avalanche arena. We hope you enjoy this episode. Music: Ketsa "Upfronts" and "Sun Inside". Keeping up with Jeremy Jones: Positional preferences and risky terrain choices: https://arc.lib.montana.edu/snow-science/item/2838

In this episode, we hear from Doug Richmond. Doug is a career ski patroller who started out at Sugarbowl in Lake Tahoe and skipped around a bit before settling in to his home at Bridger Bowl. Doug talks about the fundamentals of working in the avalanche environment, what has kept him and his team safe during avalanche mitigation mornings, and what makes a good ski patroller. Doug shares a couple of great stories to round out the hour. Enjoy. Music by Ketsa.

In this episode, we hear the story of Don Bachman's career in the snow and avalanche world. From ski patrolling to avalanche forecasting for highways, infrastructure, and athletic events, Don recounts lessons learned, mentorships, and a few stories along the way. We hope you enjoy. Music by Ketsa and Lobo Loco.

This episode features Doug Workman- Jackson, WY based ski and alpine guide. Doug is also the North American Technical Snow Safety Rep for Mammut. We chat about ski guiding in the far reaches of the Earth, some of the ways guide meetings might play out for different operations, as well as some of the current snow safety product offerings Mammut has. Don't forget to check out www.mammutavalanchesafety.com A link to the current survey I talk about in this episode: https://avbullvis.avalancheresearch.ca/ Enjoy!

In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic....Crazy times. Take a timeout to listen to this great episode featuring Eric Knoff. Eric has been a pro patroller, public avalanche forecaster, as well as an educator. We talk to Eric about his career, his new education company: Six Points Avalanche Education, as well as some of his thoughts (and research) on large column tests. Musical tracks by Ketsa. Mission Ready and Onwards Upwards. Check out Six Points Avalanche Education at www.avalancheclass.com.

In this episode, I chat with Greg Epstein. Greg grew up in Jackson Wyoming, and is proud to call it home. He has been an extreme skier, film producer for TGR, and is currently one of the Teton County Commissioner. Greg talks about his career and recounts an avalanche he was involved in outside of JHMR. Enjoy! Music provided by Broke for Free via www.freemusicarchive.org

This episode highlights two avalanche centers that may be smaller in budget and forecast area of other larger centers, but certainly don't lack in professionalism as well as community support. We chat with Gabe Coler and Aaron Hartz of the Central Oregon Avalanche Center as well as Victor Mcneil of the Wallowa Avalanche Centers. We chat about the evolution and growth of these organizations, as well as some of the ways their communities are helping to drive the success of the centers. Enjoy! Music: "Rubberband" by Anitek and " UpFolk" by Ketsa

In Episode 4.10, I sit down with Don Carpenter- Guide, Educator, and owner of The American Avalanche Institute. We chat about some of the programs that AAI offers for some of the special operations teams of the US Military. We chat about teamwork, partners, travel techniques in avalanche terrain, and of course Don shares some stories of his experience throughout his career

We sit down with Ed Adams- recently retired professor from Montana State University. Ed was instrumental in the development and success of the SubZero lab at MSU. We chat about his career path, some of the research that he has worked on, and a few stories that happened along the way. Tune in. Music on this episode by Ketsa. Tracks: Night Fly and Greener Grass.

Episode 4.8 highlights Guide, Educator, Patroller, Professional Expedition Skier Jamie Laidlaw. Jamie shares some of the lessons he has learned in the mountains, and what has caught him off guard in the snowpack. He details some strategy about going into areas where there is no readily accessed information to historical snowpack data. I know you'll enjoy this one. Cheers.

In this episode, Caleb sits down with Jayson Simons-Jones. We chat about Jayson's career as an IFMGA Mountain Guide, a guide service owner, an avalanche educator, and now his new role as the Recreation Education Manager for the American Avalanche Association. Jayson provides thoughtful insights and reflection on how he approaches bringing a deep sense of meaning and connection while taking people skiing in the backcountry. We dive into some of the key points of a great article he wrote for The Avalanche Review titled: Group Communication and Decision Making Tactics. We chat about his new role at the A3 and some of his goals within the position. We wrap up the hour with Jayson sharing some nuggets of wisdom through lessons delivered to him in the backcountry. Group Communication and Decision-Making Tactics TAR 39.4 Page 34: https://theavalanchereview.org/tar-39-4/ We hope you enjoy. Music by Ketsa www.ketsa.uk Support for this episode is provided by: Wyssen Avalanche Control www.wyssenavalanche.com Gordini USA www.gordini.com OpenSnow www.opensnow.com RecPak www.recpak.co Want to level up your tour planning game? Check out www.mtnmapping.com and use code: THEAVALANCHEHOUR to receive 30% off the $25 annual subscription. Thanks Will McKay for putting this great resource together!

In this episode, we first chat with CJ Svela who is the Vice President of the Association of Professional Patrollers. He shares with us what the APP is all about, and some of the educational offerings of this winter for Patrollers across the West. We then chat with Laura Maguire, who shares some of her research concerning decision making and cognitive systems in high risk environments. Check out all of Laura's papers: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Laura_Maguire5 If you would like to help merge further the theory and practice, contact Laura to collaborate: Maguire.81@osu.edu Music on this episode was Broke for Free and Anitek. Both tracks were courtesy of freemusicarchive.org and are made possible by the Creative Commons License

Danny Holland recounts his perspective of being part of the group that was involved in a fatal avalanche on December 26, 2013 on Cody Peak, WY. This is not meant to be an exhaustive analysis of the avalanche, but more a conversational piece about how the events of that fateful day unfolded. Thank you to Danny for sharing his story. This is not easy. For more information on this event, see the below links. We can all learn from this. Accident Report: https://avalanche.state.co.us/caic/acc/acc_report.php?acc_id=510&accfm=inv The Avalanche Review article by Alex Do: (Page 19) https://static1.squarespace.com/static/59d2a0f0e9bfdf20d6d654b7/t/5a5fbbb824a694f8d83e0d61/1516223431491/TAR3204_ALL_LoRes.pdf

Hopefully you all are stuffed from the recent Thanksgiving holiday. More importantly, I hope you were able to spend some quality time with those people you care about. This episode features a great interview with Doug Chabot who is the current director of the Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center in Bozeman, MT. We chat about some of the strategies the GNAFC utilizes to get their message across to as many diverse user groups as they can. We also chat about his work with several organizations in Pakistan. Doug shares a couple stories of close calls and the subsequent lessons learned from those. Enjoy. Music on this episode was "Somebody" by Gramatik and "Boss O Nova" by Anitek. Enjoy