Explore every episode of the podcast Lake Superior Podcast
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| S8 E3: Postcards from Lake Superior: How Letteracy Deck Inspires Letters, Stories & Connection — with Anne Brataas | 21 Oct 2026 | 00:33:46 | |
On the Lake Superior shoreline in Grand Marais, Minnesota, there is a place where visitors are invited to put down their phones, pick up a pen, and send a letter—postage included. Letteracy Deck, created by Minnesota Children’s Press, is a free, screen-free letter-writing park that has helped visitors send more than 17,000 cards and letters since opening in 2023. Quotes
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| S8 E2: Exploring Lake Superior’s Deepest Waters: The Mystery of the “Zombie Fish” — with Shawn Sitar | 30 Sep 2026 | 00:30:47 | |
More than 1,300 feet below the surface of Lake Superior, scientists are investigating a fisheries mystery: siscowet lake trout that should be fat and robust are turning up strikingly thin. Researchers call them “zombie fish,” but the real story is less sensational—and still unresolved. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with returning guest Shawn Sitar, a Michigan DNR fisheries research biologist and science officer aboard the RV Lake Char, about what the team is learning from Lake Superior’s deepest waters. From possible food shortages and disease testing to lake trout recovery and long-term monitoring, Shawn takes us into the science behind one of Lake Superior’s most unusual recent findings and how long-term fisheries research helps scientists track the health of the lake. Notable quotes:
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| S8 E1: Carrying Big Annie Clemenc’s Story Forward: From the 1913 Copper Strike to Calumet’s New Statue — with Vada Riederich | 16 Sep 2026 | 00:27:51 | |
More than a century after the 1913–14 Copper Country Strike, one of its most prominent leaders now has a permanent place in downtown Calumet, Michigan. Anna Klobuchar Clemenc, better known as “Big Annie,” was born in Calumet to Slovenian immigrant parents and became a leader in the strike, founding and serving as president of the Women’s Auxiliary No. 15 of the Western Federation of Miners. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Team Big Annie chairperson Vada Riederich about the years-long community effort to raise $150,000 to create a bronze statue honoring her legacy and the August 2026 unveiling. Vada about how a Facebook post grew into a years-long campaign, the people who helped make the monument possible, and what Big Annie’s legacy can teach new generations about labor history in Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula. Notable Quotes:
Helpful links: Big Annie Statue Project https://www.biganniestatue.com/ Keweenaw National Historical Park Coppertown Mining Museum https://www.nps.gov/places/coppertown-mining-museum.htm Keweenaw Community Foundation – Big Annie Statue Fund https://www.keweenawcommunityfoundation.org/big-annie-statue-fund Connect with us:
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| S7 E12: A New Life for Abandoned Mines: Energy, History and Innovation — with Timothy Scarlett | 05 Aug 2026 | 00:33:53 | |
For generations, the mines of Michigan's Copper Country have been woven into the history of the Lake Superior region. While many of those mines closed decades ago, their stories — and the underground landscapes they created — continue to leave their mark on the communities above them. Today, researchers are combining archaeology, historic records, and emerging technologies to better understand the region's mining history, improve public safety, and explore how these underground landscapes may serve future generations. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Tim Scarlett, Associate Professor of Archaeology at Michigan Technological University. They explore the challenges of mapping abandoned mines, why understanding these underground landscapes matters, and what they can teach us about the past and perhaps the future. Connect with us:
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| S7 E11: Moosewatch, Wilderness Learning and the Lasting Pull of Isle Royale — with Karen Bacula | 15 Jul 2026 | 00:35:12 | |
Isle Royale is one of the least visited of America’s National Parks. Located in the northwest corner of Lake Superior, it’s a tough place to get to. Access is only by seaplane, ferry or private boat. But once visitors do come, they are likely to return. Karen Bacula has been coming to this remote island since 1997. As a teacher, she also brought students to explore this unique archipelago of islands. Now, retired, she volunteers as director of Michigan Tech’s Isle Royale Institute and coordinates Moosewatch volunteers, helping people take part in fieldwork that supports the world’s longest-running predator-prey study. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Karen about citizen science, wilderness learning and the lasting pull of Isle Royale. Quotes:
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| S7 E10: From Rare Sight to Remarkable Recovery: Bald Eagles and the National Eagle Center — with Ed Hahn | 01 Jul 2026 | 00:39:44 | |
The bald eagle has been the patriotic symbol of America for 250 years. Most folks can remember the first time they saw this majestic bird soaring in the wild. There was a time when sighting them, even on Lake Superior, was rare, but today these birds of prey are making a comeback. Their return represents one of America’s most visible conservation successes. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Ed Hahn, Director of Advancement and Marketing Communications at the National Eagle Center in Wabasha, Minnesota, about the bald eagle’s recovery, how to recognize young eagles and what visitors can learn by meeting an eagle ambassador face to face. Quotes
Helpful Links Learn more about the National Eagle Center: Plan a visit to the National Eagle Center: Meet the National Eagle Center’s eagle and raptor ambassadors: Watch the EagleWatch Cam overlooking the Mississippi River: Learn what to do if you find an injured bird: Learn about bald eagle recovery and management from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service: Connect With Us:
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| S7 E9: Life Aboard The Blue Heron: Lake Superior’s Floating Science Lab — with Rual Lee | 13 May 2026 | 00:38:00 | |
Sailing Season on Lake Superior is busy. Approximately 4,500 ships travel through the Soo Locks. One boat, the Blue Heron, docked in Duluth, Minnesota, spends the summer season as a Research Vessel for the University of Minnesota’s Large Lakes Observatory. Captain Rual Lee has been at the helm of the 87’ vessel since 2014. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with him about what it takes to operate a floating science lab on the Greatest of the Great Lakes. Quotes:
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| S7 E8: Big Lake, Small World: Three Decades Of Lake Superior Stories — With Konnie LeMay | 30 Apr 2026 | 00:37:19 | |
There’s nothing like sitting around a camp fire telling Lake Superior stories. Imagine the tales you could collect spending almost three decades gathering the news, features and photographs for the region’s most popular magazine. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Konnie LeMay, long time editor of Lake Superior Magazine, published in her home town of Duluth, MInnesota, to find out more about her career-long favorites. 5 Episode Quotes “Lake Superior has always been part of my horizon.” “It has given me one of my frequently noted phrases, which is big lake, small world.” “There isn't one place that I've been around the lake that I wouldn't want to visit again.” “Our bodies are more than 50% water, and my body happens to be probably about all Lake Superior water, so I carry Lake Superior with me wherever I go.” “It is a resource not just of the moment, but a resource of the future.” Helpful links:
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| S7 E7: The Future of Moose in Minnesota: What a New Study of Young Moose Could Reveal — with Michelle Carstensen | 08 Apr 2026 | 00:33:43 | |
No mammal represents Minnesota’s north shore better than the moose. The winter of 2026 has been busy and significant for these majestic animals. Through the Northern Moose Alliance (www.moosealliance.org), a joint effort between Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, 1854 Treaty Authority, Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, and the National Parks of Lake Superior Foundation, 60 juvenile moose were collared to launch a study on why the moose population has seen a 60% decline in recent years. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Michelle Carstensen, Wildlife Health Group Leader for the Minnesota’s DNR about the project and the partnerships that have come together to better learn about the region’s moose. We’d love to keep you updated as this work evolves and share ways you can help protect moose as opportunities arise. Join the Northern Moose Alliance’s quarterly newsletter for exclusive updates, expert moose insights, and actions you can take: https://moosealliance.org/subscribe/ Quotes “It's been a very moose-filled winter for us, which, if you ask me, is a great way to spend the winter.” “What we want to know is how many can survive over winter and at what age they become reproductively contributing to the population.” “We were missing that middle cohort of animals, which is a huge driver if you want to have a population that’s going to grow.” “We’re trying to understand why the moose population has been kind of stagnant.” “It’s our role as stewards to try to help this population thrive.” Connect With Us:
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| S7 E6: One Lake, Five Parks, Twenty Years: The NPLSF Story — with Carol Brady | 25 Mar 2026 | 00:34:44 | |
What started on March 1, 1872, when Yellowstone became the first National Park in the world, has grown to over 433 units covering over 85 million acres in America. Tagged "America’s Best Idea," we celebrate National Parks Week every year in April. Roughly 20,000 people work either full-time or seasonally with the National Park Service but the system also relies on over 130,000 volunteers. The National Parks of Lake Superior Foundation--sponsor of this podcast--is one of those volunteer organizations. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Carol Brady, founding board member and long-time Chairman of NPLSF, about the organization’s mission and projects that have developed over the last two decades. 5 Quotes
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| S7 E5: Keweenaw’s Legendary Snowfall: Winter Recreation and Traditions in the Upper Peninsula’s Snow Capital — with Jesse Wiederhold | 13 Mar 2026 | 00:31:25 | |
While some parts of the country can count on crocus and daffodils to signal spring in March, Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula is still measuring snowbanks. Over 300” has fallen across the region and more is expected, possibly into May. From the looks of future forecasts, the area is sure to surpass last year’s total of 315.25” and may be on track for the all-time high of 390.4” set back in the winter of 1978-79. What do you do with over 32’ of snow in a season? In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Jesse Wiederhold, Managing Director of Visit Keweenaw, about what makes this area of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula such a mecca for snow lovers and tips on how they survive cabin fever. 5 Key Takeaways
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| S7 E4: Bat Science and Survival: Lake Superior’s Night Flyers — with Dr. Winifred Frick | 14 Jan 2026 | 00:35:29 | |
Bats have been called the “Invisible Mammal” primarily because they fly silently and mostly at night. They also roost in dark places, caves or abandoned mines, making them hard to find even in the daylight. For humans, bats aren’t only hard to see, they are hard to understand, yet they play a vital role in our world’s ecosystems and an equally important roll in our agricultural economy. Yet 200 species of bats are nearing extinction. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Winifred Frick, Chief Scientist at Bat Conservation International, to learn more about what is threatening bat populations around Lake Superior. 5 Key Takeaways Bats Are More Diverse — And Longer-Lived — Than Most People Realize Winifred Frick notes that bats are “the only mammals that can fly,” and that scientists have “just celebrated the discovery of the 1,500 bat species.” In the U.S. and Canada, she says there are “about 47 different bat species.” White-Nose Syndrome Has Devastated Bats Around Lake Superior Frick explains that white-nose syndrome is caused by a fungal pathogen — Pseudogymnoascus destructans (“PD”) — and says it “first emerged…in the winter of 2006, 2007.” She adds that it “has killed millions of bats in its wake” and highlights a “99% decline” in the northern long-eared bat population. The Fungus Spreads Through Hibernation Sites — Not Just Bat-to-Bat Contact Frick describes how the fungus grows on bats’ skin (including wings, ears, and muzzle) and can also persist on cave and mine surfaces. She explains bats can pick it up “either by coming in contact with each other” or by contacting “the surfaces where they roost.” “Fat Bat Project” — A Practical Experiment To Help Bats Survive Frick explains how white-nose causes bats to burn through fat reserves by arousing too often during hibernation, leading them to “starve to death before spring.” In Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, her team tested using UV lights near mines (including near the Delaware Mine area) to attract insects and boost foraging — what Frick calls “our fat bat project.” You Can Help Bats By Supporting Habitat, Native Insects, And Conservation Work Frick points to Bat Conservation International’s “bat gardens program,” encouraging people to plant native plants that support moths and beetles. She also emphasizes advocating for nature protection and supporting organizations funding bat research and conservation actions. Helpful Links: Bat Conservation International - batcon.org The Invisible Mammal Film - doclands.com/film/the-invisible-mammal Connect With Us: Lake Superior Podcast Page – https://nplsf.org/podcast Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/NationalParksOfLakeSuperiorFoundation Sponsors: Cafe Imports – Minneapolis-based importers of specialty green coffees since 1993, focused on sustainability. Learn more: cafeimports.com National Parks of Lake Superior Foundation – Donate to protect Lake Superior’s five national parks: nplsf.org/donate | |||
| S7 E3: Lake Superior’s Lasting Hold: The Story Behind A Is for Agates: A Lake Superior Alphabet Book — with Patti Baraks | 10 Dec 2025 | 00:28:27 | |
For some, growing up on Lake Superior carves a deep connection to place, and no matter where life leads, the pull to return to that rugged shoreline never leaves. Patti Baraks knows too well that hold Superior creates. She grew up in Superior, Wisconsin, and although she has lived, worked and raised a family in Texas, she admits, her internal compass always points north toward that mighty lake. As an early childhood education teacher with a passion for poetry, she used that lure to write a children’s book, “A is for Agates, A Lake Superior Alphabet Book”. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Patti not only about her time in Wisconsin, but also about the motivation and process of producing a children’s book. If you’d like a copy, or need a perfect Lake Superior–themed Christmas gift, she shares that you can find the book at independent bookstores and libraries around the Lake Superior region. It’s also available online at Itasca Books: https://itascabooks.com/products/a-is-for-agates-a-lake-superior-alphabet-book-1 Key takeaways Patti’s Deep Connection to Lake Superior Has Never Faded Patti Baraks grew up in Superior, Wisconsin, a city she describes as “one of the greatest port cities on Lake Superior.” She explains that Lake Superior shaped every part of daily life — the economy, recreation, and weather — and says the lake “has always had a hold over me that I can’t quite explain.” Even after moving to Texas, she shares that her “internal compass points north” and draws her back every summer. The Passing of Her Father Motivated Her to Finally Write a Book Patti says she had “always wanted to be a writer,” but it wasn’t until her father passed away about a year and a half before the interview that she decided she didn’t want “a cloud of regret” about never pursuing that dream. This loss gave her the push to “get out of [her] comfort zone and just go for it.” Collaboration With Illustrator Lisa Perrin Cosmo Was Central to the Book’s Success Patti selected illustrator Lisa Perrin Cosmo after seeing an agate painting in her portfolio and feeling immediately drawn to her work. She says Lisa is “local to the North Shore,” “really knows the lake,” and seemed able to “read my mind” when creating the illustrations. Patti calls her artwork “breathtaking” and says the illustrator “paints the best moose.” Patti Believes Nature-Based Literature Helps Children Explore and Learn As a former teacher, Patti says that nature-based books encourage kids to get outside, reduce stress, and learn through observation. She describes the outdoors as “the original classroom,” where children discover things independently, ask questions, and engage their natural curiosity. Connect With Us: Lake Superior Podcast Page – https://nplsf.org/podcast Sponsors: Cafe Imports – Minneapolis-based importers of specialty green coffees since 1993, focused on sustainability. Learn more: https://cafeimports.com National Parks of Lake Superior Foundation – Donate to protect Lake Superior’s five national parks: https://nplsf.org/donate | |||
| S7 E2: Mapping the Seen and Unseen: USGS Earth MRI’s Work in the Lake Superior Region - with Jamey Jones | 26 Nov 2025 | 00:33:55 | |
The first known map of Lake Superior was drawn by Virginian John Mitchell in 1755. Over the centuries, countless records of the shoreline, depths, lighthouses and communities have been published. But now, there’s another map in the works. This one by the United States Geological Survey. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Jamey Jones, Science Coordinator for the USGS’s Earth Mapping Resources Initiatives, or Earth MRI. He shares what this project hopes to accomplish, particularly when it comes to locating the area’s rare earth minerals and contributing to the publicly available data on metals deposits in the Lake Superior region. Tune in to learn more! Webpage
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| S7 E1: The Edmund Fitzgerald Story and Legacy: 50 Years Beneath the Waves — with Fred Stonehouse | 05 Nov 2025 | 00:31:48 | |
The Gales of November is very real on the Great Lakes, known as the “Month of Storms.” Some 550 wrecks lie on the bottom of Lake Superior, at least 200 along Superior’s Shipwreck Coast, a treacherous 80-Mile stretch with no safe harbor between Munising and Whitefish Point. On November 10, 1975, the Edmund Fitzgerald, a 728 foot freighter went down in a storm described as both blizzard and hurricane taking all 29 crew members to their grave. Made famous by the Gordon Lightfoot song, the wreck has remained a mystery for fifty years. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with maritime historian, author and lecturer Fred Stonehouse about that tragic night and what we have learned since her sinking and how her legacy has shaped maritime safety. Key Takeaways
Connect With Us: Lake Superior Podcast Page – https://nplsf.org/podcast Sponsors: Cafe Imports – Minneapolis-based importers of specialty green coffees since 1993, focused on sustainability. Learn more: https://cafeimports.com National Parks of Lake Superior Foundation – Donate to protect Lake Superior’s five national parks: https://nplsf.org/donate | |||
| S6 E11: The Road Less Paved: Biking the Wild North — with Josh Rizzo | 06 Aug 2025 | 00:35:14 | |
Biking in the Superior Country is more than just a way to get around—it’s a way of life. From gravel roads to rugged trails to family bike packing along Big Blue’s shoreline, the region offers two-wheeled adventure in every season. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Josh Rizzo, founder of thenxrth.com—an adventure site dedicated to unpaved cycling across three states--Minnesota, Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Josh shares how biking became a lifelong passion, and how he’s started bringing his kids along for multi-day trips. He tells what makes this corner of the world such a rich landscape for two-wheeled travel. Whether you’re a road, gravel, mountain or fat biker, or even just curious about the lure of riding, Josh’s stories are sure to inspire you to hop in the saddle. Key Takeaways + Notable Quotes: -A Lifelong Love of Cycling Sparked by Childhood Adventures -Why the Lake Superior Region Is a Cyclist’s Paradise -Bikepacking as a Family Tradition—Even With a 10-Month-Old -Fat Biking Brings All Cyclists Together in Winter -Thenxrth.com Is a Home for Off-Road Cycling Adventure -Which State Is Best for Biking? It Depends. Resources: TheNxrth – Gravel, Fat, Mountain & Bikepacking Routes – https://www.thenxrth.com Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/the_nxrth/ Connect With Us: Lake Superior Podcast Page – https://nplsf.org/podcast Sponsors: Cafe Imports – Minneapolis-based importers of specialty green coffees since 1993, focused on sustainability. National Parks of Lake Superior Foundation – Donate to protect Lake Superior’s five national parks: https://nplsf.org/donate Be sure to tune in to this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast to hear Josh Rizzo share his lifelong passion for biking, what makes the Lake Superior region a cyclist’s dream, and how families of all ages can embrace adventure on two wheels. | |||
| S6 E10: What Lies Beneath: Lake Superior’s Underwater Cleanup – With Diver Don Fassbender | 28 Jul 2025 | 00:32:32 | |
Lake Superior is not only the largest of the Great Lakes, but the water quality is also some of the clearest. Yet, historically, the Lake was often a dumping ground for all kinds of debris. "Out of sight, out of mind” was an all-too-common mindset. Don Fassbender, president of Great Lakes Scuba Diving and Lake Preservation, has made it his life's mission to clean up Lake Superior’s underwater world. With volunteers, including fellow divers and kayakers, he estimates 14 tons of tires have been hauled up from Marquette MIchigan's Lower Harbor. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Don about how his mission started and the mysteries he's found below the surface. Key Takeaways + Notable Quotes: A Lifelong Passion for Diving Inspired by Jacques Cousteau “As a young man, I can recall racing home from school just so I wouldn't miss the undersea world of Jacques Cousteau.” Vintage Diving Equipment Connects Divers More Intimately with the Water “There's actually less things that can go wrong... Vintage kit would look like a tank, a regulator, some fins, maybe a wetsuit and a mask, and then you're off. No computers, no fancy gauges.” Tons of Trash are Hidden Beneath Lake Superior “We removed, what, 14 tons of tires out of Marquette Lower Harbor alone over a period of about five years. And there's still a lot of trash down there.” Removing Underwater Debris is Complex and Laborious Heavy items, poor visibility, and underwater hazards make cleanup efforts extremely challenging. Why Tires are Prevalent in Lake Superior “Tires were used as boat bumpers for years and years…as weather wears them down…they would just string another one up in its place.” Community Involvement is Essential for Successful Cleanups Volunteers on land, in boats, and even kayaks significantly contribute to cleanup missions. Safety and Equipment Needs Drive Fundraising Efforts Specialized gear and safety equipment are critical for diver safety and efficiency. Surprising Finds Beneath the Surface Tell Unique Stories “One of my favorite finds, a little diamond ring that was tied to a rock with a shoelace.” Every item retrieved from Lake Superior carries its own history, some humorous, some mysterious. Resources:
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Be sure to tune in to this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast to hear Diver Don Fassbender share firsthand experiences from beneath Lake Superior’s waters, the incredible teamwork required for environmental preservation, and how you can help protect the Great Lakes. | |||
| S6 E9: Mining the Past: How Copper Shaped the Keweenaw and Its World-Class Museum - An Interview with John Jaszczak | 09 Jul 2025 | 00:31:19 | |
"If you didn’t grow it, you’ve got to mine it,” says John Jaszczak, Director and Curator of the A. E. Seaman Mineral Museum in Houghton, Michigan. Since 1838--just after Michigan became a state--geologists and miners have been collecting rock and mineral specimens as the first American Mining Rush began. Since 1855, those specimens were housed at Michigan Technological University, then known as Michigan College of Mines, making it one of the oldest museums not only in Michigan, but the Great Lakes region. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with John about the museum origins and what a visitor can find there. Key Takeaways + Notable Quotes: The region’s history—from Indigenous use to mining booms to today’s tourism—stems from its globally unique native copper deposit. “The reason we’re here is because of the geology. And because of copper in particular.” What began as a teaching collection for Michigan Tech’s School of Mines became a public museum in 1902. “The collection started in 1885 when the university started offering courses in mineralogy.” From discovery tales to global expeditions, the museum presents minerals as more than geology. “Some specimens have scientific stories. Some have personal stories. Some have adventure stories.” Under ultraviolet light, otherwise ordinary-looking minerals burst into color. “That’s the part where most people say, ‘Wow, I didn’t expect this.’” John’s lifelong fascination with minerals led him to volunteer, then direct, the museum alongside his career in physics. “I started collecting minerals when I was probably five or six years old... and I just loved it.” From working with scientists around the world to publishing in mineralogical journals, the museum plays an active role in global discovery. “There's something magical about being the first to describe and name something.” The Keweenaw’s native copper is on display in museum-quality form that you can’t find anywhere else. “We have the world’s best specimens of copper. No question about it.” Resources:
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Be sure to tune in to this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast to hear Dr. John Jaszczak share the rich history of Michigan’s native copper legacy, how the A.E. Seaman Mineral Museum became one of the nation’s premier mineral museums, and why its specimens continue to captivate visitors, researchers, and collectors from around the world. | |||
| S6 E8: Isle Royale: Trip Planning, Wildlife, and Wilderness Safety – An Interview with Chris Amidon | 18 Jun 2025 | 00:34:47 | |
Isle Royale National Park is the Great Lakes Mecca for backpackers. This archipelago of islands is also one of our most remote National Parks so preparing for a visit takes extra planning. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Chris Amidon, Supervisory Park Ranger for Interpretation and Visitor Services. He not only has tips for first-timers, but also has details on some new procedures, particularly when it comes to food storage. Key Takeaways:
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Be sure to tune in to this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast to hear Chris Amidon share essential guidance for visitors, the inside story on Artist-in-Residence selections, and the quiet power of a sunrise over Feltman Lake. | |||
| S6 E7: Coffee, Community, and the Power of the Big Lake – An Interview with Sarah Jorgenson-Hallberg | 04 Jun 2025 | 00:36:13 | |
Minnesota’s North Shore has been a gathering place for centuries. Whether heading into the Boundary Waters or out on Lake Superior, Grand Marais ranks a favorite Base Camp. While it may be small in population, it’s big in spirit. Life here moves to the rhythms of the woods and waters. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Sarah Jorgensen-Halberg, longtime resident and owner of Java Moose, the beloved shoreline coffee shop that fuels both locals and visiting adventurers. Her daily weather video connects folks near and far to this Sweetwater Sea town and she shares what it means to live on the edge of wilderness—and how the lake’s powerful sense of place keeps people coming back to Grand Marais. Key Takeaways:
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| S6 E6: Fort Wilkins, Copper Harbor, and Living History in the Keweenaw – An Interview with Barry James | 07 May 2025 | 00:30:11 | |
Long before the Keweenaw Peninsula became a destination for hikers, bikers, and Lake Superior rock hounds, it was the stage for a national copper rush. Shortly after Michigan became a state in 1837, Geologist Douglas Houghton was sent to Copper Harbor to explore reports from Native Americans about copper in the region. By 1844, Fort Wilkins was built to be the military base helping to keep the peace as fortune-seekers came to the state’s most northern port. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Barry James, Upper Peninsula historian with the Michigan History Center, about the fascinating past—and present—of this historic state park. From the 1840s copper rush chaos to Civil War reenactments, as well as lighthouse tours and tales of shipwrecks, Fort Wilkins remains a living classroom with extensive youth programs. Join us as we explore the enduring significance of this frontier fort—and the people working to keep its stories alive.
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| S6 E5: Isle Royale in Winter: Survival, Science, and Secrets in the Snow – An Interview with Jonathan Pauli | 23 Apr 2025 | 00:37:58 | |
Winter Study at Isle Royale National Park has a decades long history, but just a few scientists ever get the chance to spend time on this isolated archipelago in Lake Superior. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with one of those fortunate ones, Johnathan Pauli, Professor in the Department of Forest & Wildlife Ecology at the University of Wisconsin Madison. From tracking foxes and martens to unraveling a centuries-old survival story, Johnathan shares how studying this wilderness in winter reveals secrets a summer visitor would never experience. Join us for a conversation about science, survival, and what makes Isle Royale National Park a critical refuge for wildlife. Key Takeaways:
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Be sure to tune in to this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast to hear Jonathan Pauli’s firsthand stories of survival, science, and what Isle Royale reveals in the silence of winter. | |||
| S6 E4: Tourism, Economic Growth, and the Magic of Munising - An Interview with Kathy Reynolds | 05 Mar 2025 | 00:34:57 | |
Our National Parks are important places, not just for their preservation of natural beauty and resources, but also for the economic impact they bring to gateway communities. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula sees nearly a million visitors, year round. For the anchor cities of Munising and Grand Marais, hosting those folks has become their chief industry. With a population of less than 2,000, how do they do it? In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Kathy Reynolds, the CEO of the Greater Munising Bay Partnership as well as Director of the Alger County Chamber of Commerce to learn more. Key Takeaways:
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| S6 E3: The Lake Trout Resurgence In Lake Superior: A Conservation Success Story - An Interview with Shawn Sitar | 20 Feb 2025 | 00:28:22 | |
Since the 1940’s, Lake Trout have been extinct in all of the Great Lakes except Lake Superior. Pressure from commercial fishing as well as the invasion of sea lamprey devastated this native species, and the population in Lake Superior also suffered. For three generations an international team of scientists has been working to restore healthy Lake Trout populations in all the Great Lakes. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Shawn Sitar, Fisheries Research Biologist with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to update the status of Lake Trout in Lake Superior. Key Takeaways:
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Be sure to tune in to this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast to hear Shawn Sitar’s in-depth insights on the lake trout recovery efforts, the unique characteristics of Lake Superior, and the ongoing challenges and innovations in Great Lakes fisheries research. | |||
| S6 E2: Michigan Ice Fest – Where Adventure Meets Community – An Interview with Bill Thompson | 29 Jan 2025 | 00:31:27 | |
Winter can be a sleepy time at the National Parks on Lake Superior, but at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore near Munising, Michigan, visitors come to snowmobile, mush dogs, snowshoe, fish and cross-country ski. But the biggest event to bring folks into the park is the Michigan Ice Fest. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Ice Fest organizer Bill Thompson about the event and what makes Pictured Rocks such a Mecca for the sport.
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Be sure to tune in to this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast to hear Bill Thompson’s incredible stories of adventure, community, and ice climbing at one of the most unique national parks in the world. | |||
| S6 E1: Chasing Sunrise On Lake Superior: An Interview with Bugsy Sailor | 22 Jan 2025 | 00:34:38 | |
New Year Resolutions, if you don’t make them, chances are you thought about it. But do those promises keep? In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Bugsy Sailor, the Official Unofficial Ambassador of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Bugsy shares how a resolution he made on January 1, 2019, changed his life.
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Be sure to tune in to this inspiring episode of the Lake Superior Podcast to hear Bugsy Sailor’s incredible journey of capturing sunrises, his resilience in the face of challenges, and his passion for connecting with nature on a daily basis. Connect With Us:
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| S5 E14: The Estivant Pines Story - 50 Years of Conservation with Charles Eshbach | 21 Nov 2024 | 00:37:51 | |
The forests that ring Lake Superior are some of the most magical on the continent. At the tip of Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula, in Copper Harbor, you’ll find the Estivant Pines. This 570 acres of old-growth pine has lured hikers for decades. But saving this stand of ancient timber was no small feat.
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Be sure to tune in to this inspiring episode of the Lake Superior Podcast to hear Charles’s incredible story of conservation and community dedication. Connect With Us:
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| S5 E13: Foraging - Rediscover and Reconnect With Nature - An Interview with Tim Clemens | 30 Oct 2024 | 00:33:04 | |
Since time began humans have been foragers. Survival depended on connecting to the natural world. Today, when most of our food comes from a grocery store or is eaten in a restaurant, that link has been lost. But not for Tim Clemens. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Tim, a professional forager and founder of Ironwood Foraging about how he’s helping people connect with nature; and not in the middle of the forest or farm country, but near his urban home of Minneapolis.
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Be sure to tune in to this insightful episode of the Lake Superior Podcast to learn more about the art of foraging and how you can reconnect with the environment through this ancient practice. Connect With Us: | |||
| S5 E12: Capturing the Magic of The Northern Lights: An Interview with Ogetay Kayali | 16 Oct 2024 | 00:31:11 | |
Witnessing the Northern Lights checks a bucket-list for many. The first time you see the sky erupt in waves of pulsing white, green, red, or even blue light makes lifelong memories. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Astrophysics Graduate Student Ogetay Kayali from Michigan Technological University in Houghton, Michigan. Ogetay shares not only why we seem to be experiencing the Northern Lights more frequently, but also how to better take advantage of the experience with our cameras.
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Don’t miss this captivating episode as Ogatai Kayali, an astrophysics graduate student, explains the science behind the Northern Lights and why we’ve been seeing them more frequently along Lake Superior. Tune in for an in-depth look at the solar cycles, photography tips, and how Lake Superior’s dark skies provide some of the best stargazing opportunities in the world. | |||
| S5 E11: Pictured Rocks: Where Conservation Meets Recreation - An Interview with Hannah Bradburn | 02 Oct 2024 | 00:31:13 | |
Nearly a million visitors came to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula in 2023, contributing over $45 million dollars to the nearby economies. For Alger County--with a population of less than nine thousand people—the park also supports 544 jobs. But hosting that many visitors and generating that much revenue does present unique challenges. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Hannah Bradburn, Visual Information Specialist at Pictured Rocks, to explore the park’s delicate balance between conservation and recreation.
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| S5 E10: Isle Royale Through The Lens - An Interview with Tom Haas, Photographer and Author | 31 Jul 2024 | 00:27:39 | |
For those who have backpacked Isle Royale, you know it’s a rugged place. Imagine carrying a 20 pound camera and wooden tripod around, along with a stash of 4x5 black and white film. In 1967, Tom Haas, a 19 year old college student from Connecticut was on a mission with the National Park Service to photograph the island. Most of his travel was done by kayak and over the course of 20 years he captured 3,000 black and white images.
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Don't miss the opportunity to delve into the enchanting world of Isle Royale through the lens of photographer and author Tom Haas. Listen to the full episode for a profound exploration of the park's history, beauty, and enduring legacy | |||
| S5 E9: Great Lakes Shipping - An Interview with Sam Hankinson, Development Coordinator at the Port of Monroe | 10 Jul 2024 | 00:38:40 | |
While we see trucks and trains moving freight around the country, goods are also traveling by freighter, and some of those ships are 1,000 feet long. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Sam Hankinson, Development Coordinator at the Port of Monroe about the health of Great Lakes shipping and how we can learn more about what’s cruising out on the water.
Don't miss out on the captivating insights and stories shared in this episode of the Lake Superior podcast. Tune in to the full episode for a deep dive into the world of shipping on the Great Lakes and discover more enriching content from the podcast series. | |||
| S5 E8: The Lutsong Music Festival - An Interview with Co-Founder Scott Schuler | 26 Jun 2024 | 00:29:43 | |
Music. Why is it important? For most--on a personal level--music stirs feelings, memories and sensations. But sharing music is also a way to for people to connect, bond thoughts and emotions when words won’t do. Lake Superior’s waves have been making their own melodies since time began, but the Big Blue also ranks a centuries old magnet luring musicians of all types to the shores to strum and sing. That tradition continues in Lutsen, on Minnesota’s north shore. Coming up July 18-21, 2024, Cook county will host the 3rd annual Lutsong Music Festival. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Lutsong co-founder Scott Schuler about the evolution of this boutique music festival and how a county of just 5,000 people has been able to attract such quality musicians.
Make sure to check out the Lutsong Music Festival in Lutsen, Minnesota, for a unique Americana music experience against the stunning backdrop of Lake Superior. Listen to the full episode for more insights and stay tuned for engaging content from the Lake Superior podcast. | |||
| S5 E7: Jon Prain - "The Isle Royale Guy" | 12 Jun 2024 | 00:31:14 | |
A backpacking trip to Isle Royale heads up the Bucket List for many, but with 165 miles of trails and 36 campsites, planning a trip can be overwhelming, particularly for first-timers. Experience counts. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with veteran backpacker Jon Prain. Known as the Isle Royale Guy, (also the name of his website) he shares tips about his decades of trips to this remote island park and ways to make it an even more memorable trek.
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| S5 E6: Jerry Dennis - Award-Winning Great Lakes Author - Traverse City, Michigan | 29 May 2024 | 00:32:44 | |
Jerry Dennis is one of the country’s most prolific outdoor writers. With by-lines in The New York Times, Smithsonian, Orion, American Way, Michigan Quarterly Review, and Gray's Sporting Journal as well as 13 books--and most recently a new edition of “The Living Great Lakes: Searching the Heart of the Island Seas”--to his credit, he is forever finding stories to tell about the Midwest’s waters. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with this seasoned writer about his experiences on Lake Superior, and his deep connection to the water and the natural world that has fueled his writing for four decades.
To listen to the full episode and explore more enlightening content from the Lake Superior podcast, visit our website or your preferred podcast platform. Stay tuned for future episodes featuring fascinating guests and stories about the Great Lakes and Lake Superior. | |||
| S5 E5: Aidan Lee - Owner of Trek & Trail - Bayfield, Wisconsin | 15 May 2024 | 00:31:59 | |
When it comes to kayaking this Sweetwater Sea, a paddler has 2,726 miles of spectacular shoreline to explore as well as three National Parks: Isle Royale, Apostle Islands and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshores. But it’s also a destination where paddlers need to prepare. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Aidan Lee, owner of Trek & Trail in Bayfield, Wisconsin, talks with Walt Lindala and Frida Waara not only about the best places to visit on a day trip, but also shares how to extend your stay and camp among the Apostles Islands. He also emphasizes the ever-changing moods of Lake Superior and the importance of keeping safe on the water. Whether you are a beginner or experienced paddler, you’ll learn tips and highlights about paddling adventures on this greatest of the Great Lakes.
Listen to the full episode and learn more about kayaking on Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands. Stay tuned for more engaging and informative episodes from the Lake Superior podcast. | |||
| S5 E4: Tyler Penrod - Program Manager with the Superior Watershed Partnership - Marquette, Michigan | 01 May 2024 | 00:29:53 | |
Changing climate is impacting Lake Superior. The lack of ice cover this past winter effects coastal erosion, water levels, fish populations and wildlife. Plus, the unseasonably warm weather has economic and cultural impacts on the shoreline communities as well. But what can be done? In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Tyler Penrod, Program Manager at the Lake Superior Watershed Partnership. He has a plan and a list of projects in the works with the Great Lakes Climate Corps to make a difference.
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Resources: Listen to the full episode of the Lake Superior podcast to gain more insights into the impact of climate change on Lake Superior and the efforts being made by the Superior Watershed Partnership to address these challenges. Stay tuned for more engaging discussions and valuable content from the podcast. | |||
| S5 E3: Dan Fountain - Author, Shipwreck Historian and Researcher | 03 Apr 2024 | 00:30:14 | |
Lake Superior is home to an estimated 550 shipwrecks, with approximately half of them still undiscovered. In this episode of the Lake Superior podcast, hosts Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Dan Fountain, author, shipwreck historian, and researcher, about his lifelong passion for exploring Superior's depths and uncovering the stories behind these sunken vessels. He shares the challenges of finding shipwrecks in these vast and deep waters and explains the process of using side scanning sonar to locate them. Dan also recounts his latest discovery, the Arlington, a shipwreck with a unique and tragic story. This episode offers a captivating glimpse into the history hidden beneath Lake Superior’s surface. | |||
| S5 E2: Phyllis Green - Former Superintendent of Isle Royale National Park - Ballast Winter | 13 Mar 2024 | 00:27:20 | |
Lake Superior tops the world’s largest freshwater ecosystem as well as the longest deep-draft inland waterway, extending from Duluth, Minnesota, to the St. Lawrence Seaway and the Atlantic Ocean. Roughly 10,000 cargo ships pass through the Soo Locks every year. When it comes to protecting the Great Lakes from invasive species, monitoring the ballast water on these cargo ships is key. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Phyllis Green, former Superintendent at Isle Royale National Park as well as board member of the National Parks of Lake Superior Foundation, about ballast water and what is being done on both US and Canadian shores to protect Lake Superior. | |||
| S5 E1: Dr. Sarah Hoy - Research Assistant Professor at Michigan Technological University - Isle Royale Winter Study Suspended | 28 Feb 2024 | 00:24:22 | |
Unseasonably warm weather along Lake Superior from Sault Ste. Marie to Grand Portage has canceled a host of winter events from sled dog and cross-country ski races to snowmobile rides and ice fishing tournaments. But it’s not just tourism that has been effected by mild temperatures. After 65 years of monitoring wolf and moose populations at Isle Royale--the longest predator-prey study in history--scientists had to suspend their 7 week Winter Study because of challenges accessing the island. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Dr. Sarah Hoy, Research Assistant and Professor at Michigan Technological University in Houghton, Michigan. She explains the logistics and challenges of working on this remote archipelago in winter and what the cancelation means to the bank of data collected and predictions for the future. | |||
| S4 E12: Craig Blacklock, Photographer & Author - Moose Lake, Minnesota | 17 Jan 2024 | 00:28:56 | |
Craig Blacklock first started taking pictures when he was nine years old, following his father, Les Blacklock, a pioneering nature photographer. By the time he was 15, he had graduated to capturing images on a large format 4x5 camera. Over his career, his award winning photos have been published in books, calendars and exhibits. He has been called the "Ansel Adams of Lake Superior," and in this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Craig from his home in Moose Lake, Minnesota, about his six decades of working on and around Lake Superior and the inspiration for his newest book, “Light Waves.” | |||
| S4 E11: Karl Koster, Park Ranger - Grand Portage National Monument | 03 Jan 2024 | 00:31:30 | |
Grand Portage National Monument in northern Minnesota sits right in the middle of the Canoe Capital of the World. The National Park has many boats on display, from smaller crafts used for gathering rice and hunting to huge Voyageur canoes used to haul thousands of pounds of furs to Montreal. Every summer visitors come to the park not only to learn more about the fur trade, but to also learn the secrets of how these age-old boats were built. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Grand Portage Ranger Karl Koster about what it takes—from materials to technique—to construct an authentic birch bark canoe. | |||
| S4 E10: Beth Kirschner, Author of "Copper Divide" - Ann Arbor, Michigan | 13 Dec 2023 | 00:29:01 | |
Christmas Eve, 1913, was a tragic night in Calumet, Michigan. 73 people—59 of them children--were killed when someone falsely yelled, “Fire,” at a crowded Christmas party on the second floor of the Italian Hall setting off a deadly stampede. The disaster occurred five months into a crippling labor strike between Western Federation of Miners Union workers and the Calumet Hecla Mining Company. | |||
| S4 E9: Hannah Bradburn, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Visual Information Specialist & Emma Olechnowicz, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Ranger | 29 Nov 2023 | 00:33:18 | |
78 lighthouses circle Lake Superior, 42 of those navigational aids dot the Michigan shoreline. Au Sable Point Light Station in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore ranks one of the most popular. Built in 1874, it stands 86’ tall and the original third-order Fresnel lens could beam a light as far as 17 miles out on Superior. | |||
| S4 E8: John Shepard, Associate Professor and Assistant Director at the Center for Global Environmental Education, Hamline University | 01 Nov 2023 | 00:33:22 | |
Lake Superior is one of the fastest warming lakes in the world. And when it comes to getting people’s attention about the warming, film is a powerful medium. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with film maker John Shepard about his upcoming documentary, “A Sea Change for Lake Superior.” John shares what his team at the Center for Global Environmental Education at Hamline University is doing to get the world out and ways we can be better stewards to protect our fresh water. | |||
| S4 E7: John Mueller, Owner of the Keweenaw Mountain Lodge | 06 Oct 2023 | 00:34:45 | |
As daylight hours begin to wane, the darkest months of the year are ahead. For many, it means more time to get outside and pay attention to what’s happening through the night in our sky. In this episode of Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with John Mueller at the historic Keweenaw Mountain Lodge in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Named an official International Dark Sky Park, John shares what the Lodge has done to earn that distinction and even more important, what happens to the planet when you keep the night dark. | |||
| S4 E6: Joe Hughes, Chief Ranger at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore | 06 Sep 2023 | 00:34:57 | |
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore stretches along 42 miles of Lake Superior shoreline from Munising to Grand Marais. The year-round park covers roughly 114 square miles and includes 22 back country camp grounds, many circling the 10 inland lakes and 100 miles of trails. It’s rugged and remote. So, what does it take to be Chief Ranger in the heart of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula? In this episode of Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara learn from Joe Hughes about the year-round responsibilities—including the work of the High Angle Rescue Team—covering the woods and waters of the country’s first national lakeshore. | |||
| S4 E5: Tomás Sowles, Chief Pilot Isle Royale Seaplanes | 16 Aug 2023 | 00:37:44 | |
Isle Royale ranks the most remote of the five National Parks on Lake Superior. Only two ways to get there; by boat or sea plane. Whether you go by air or water, weather rules. Guests of this podcast concur, "Lake Superior is always the boss.” In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Isle Royale Sea Planes Chief Pilot Tomas Sowles about the charm and challenge of flying visitors to one of the world's most remote wilderness areas. | |||
| S4 E4: Victoria Manganiello, Artist in Residence at Rabbit Island | 02 Aug 2023 | 00:27:49 | |
When looking for a place to renew, refresh, reset, where do you go? The fresh air and endless horizon of Lake Superior have long created a place for folks to come to heal, contemplate change, and be inspired forward. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast Walt Lindala and Frida Waara meet New York artist Victoria Manganiello and learn about time alone at Rabbit Island, as the Artist in Residence. | |||
| S4 E3: Anna Deschampe, Chief of Interpretation, Grand Portage National Monument | 19 Jul 2023 | 00:32:23 | |
Lake Superior’s fur trade dates back to the 16th century and the best place to get an understanding of that rich history is a visit to Minnesota’s Grand Portage National Monument. For most people, the best way to learn is by doing and since 1972, volunteers have been coming together to commemorate the annual Fur Trade Rendezvous with re-enactments and workshops to experience life in the 1790’s. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara learn more about the annual Rendezvous, held the second weekend in August, from Anna Deschampe, Grand Portage’s Chief of Interpretation, and a lifelong Rendezvous participant. | |||