Mushing

First Paw Media
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  • EVERY TWO WEEKS

Mushing is a podcast from First Paw Media that follows the sport of dog mushing, the Iditarod, and races worldwide. Mushing is hosted by best-selling author Robert Forto (A Musher's Dream) and a team of co-hosts that bring a unique perspective to the show. During the Iditarod race each March, the show is a daily podcast that covers the race with an in-depth analysis you won't find anywhere else. In the off-season, hear interviews with mushers, behind-the-scenes news, and updates. Popular guests: Emily Robinson, Jesse Holmes, Ryan Redington, Barb Redington, Lance Mackey, Brenda Mackey, Jason Mackey, Anna and Kristy Berington, Rohn Buser, DeeDee Jonrowe, and more. Popular Podcast topics: Iditarod race stories and analysis, dryland mushing and off-season racing, interviews with mushers and racers, race preparation and training strategies, sled dog kennel life and dog care, Yukon Quest and other major races, mushing history and heritage, global mushing perspectives (international races), canicross and alternative mushing formats Community and culture in the mushing world, and more.

  1. 2 DAYS AGO

    Five Sleds, One Finish Line: Sydnie Bahl’s Iditarod Journey

    In this episode of the Mushing Podcast, host Robert Forto sits down with Iditarod finisher Sydnie Bahl, a physical therapist based in the Mat-Su Valley who recently completed her first successful run to Nome. Just days removed from the trail, Sydnie reflects on the transition back to everyday life and the reality of what it takes to finish one of the most demanding endurance races in the world. Sydnie’s path into mushing was not something she had planned from childhood. After moving to Alaska in search of adventure, she was introduced to the sport through local community connections and quickly immersed herself in kennel life. What began as a willingness to help soon turned into a full commitment, leading her through qualifying races and eventually to the Iditarod start line. The conversation dives into the realities of racing the traditional Northern Route, including difficult terrain, high winds, and unpredictable trail conditions. Sydnie shares detailed stories from the race, including a series of equipment failures that forced her to rely on multiple sleds just to stay in competition. Her experience highlights not only the physical demands of the race but also the importance of the broader mushing community, where fellow competitors and race officials play a critical role in helping mushers continue forward. One of the most compelling parts of the episode centers on the final stretch into Nome, where Sydnie describes the emotional shift from survival mode to realization. After more than a thousand miles on the trail, the sound of the finish line siren and the presence of a crowd waiting at the arch marked a moment that is difficult to put into words but impossible to forget. Listeners will also hear about the dogs behind the effort, including her lead dog, Flue, and the bond that develops over years of training and racing together. The episode closes with reflections on recovery, future racing plans, and what it means to be part of the mushing community going forward. This episode offers a grounded look at the Iditarod through the lens of a first-time finisher who experienced both the highs and the setbacks that define the race. Support our Work Like this episode? Share it with your mushing friends! Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share Sign up for our Newsletter HERE Join the On-Air Media Coaching waitlist for a chance to get coached on the air by Rober and get your podcast questions answered in real time. Apply now to the Team and Trail Foundation funding page and get support to turn your outdoor, education, or community project into a real impact. Apply for the Mushing® Media Accelerator and get deeper support and expert guidance tailored to your specific sponsorship and media goals. Email us at podcast@mushing.com Follow Mushing® for more muhsing news, insights, and more: Facebook | X | Instagram You can contact us here: Podcast@mushing.com © 2010-2026 by Mushing® All Rights Reserved

    32 min

  2. 3 DAYS AGO

    Junior Musher Liam Connor: Balancing School and the Sled

    What does it look like to grow up in the world of sled dog racing? In this episode, we sit down with Liam Connor, a 16-year-old musher from Saskatchewan, Canada, who is already competing at a high level in mid-distance races. Liam shares what it’s like to be raised in a mushing family, how his team manages a kennel of around 80 dogs, and how he balances academics with the demands of training and racing. We also talk about the unique racing conditions of the Canadian prairies, his experience competing in events like the Pedigree Stage Stop, and how young mushers are stepping into the sport earlier than ever. This episode offers a grounded look at the lifestyle, discipline, and commitment required to succeed in mushing at a young age, along with insights into the sport's future through the eyes of its next generation. Support our Work Like this episode? Share it with your mushing friends! Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share Sign up for our Newsletter HERE Join the On-Air Media Coaching waitlist for a chance to get coached on the air by Rober and get your podcast questions answered in real time. Apply now to the Team and Trail Foundation funding page and get support to turn your outdoor, education, or community project into a real impact. Apply for the Mushing® Media Accelerator and get deeper support and expert guidance tailored to your specific sponsorship and media goals. Email us at podcast@mushing.com Follow Mushing® for more muhsing news, insights, and more: Facebook | X | Instagram You can contact us here: Podcast@mushing.com © 2010-2026 by Mushing® All Rights Reserved

    15 min

  3. 22 MAR

    Iditarod 54: Wrap Up Show

    This episode features a deep dive into the world of dog mushing, exploring the history, the sport's challenges, and the legacy of legendary mushers. We also profile Rhon Buser, a second-generation musher carrying forward a proud family tradition, and reflect on the significance of the Iditarod race. Key TopicsHistory of dog mushing and the IditarodThe bond between mushers and dogsRohn Buser's family legacy and careerChallenges faced during the race and trail conditionsAwards, honors, and milestones in sled dog racing Support our Work Like this episode? Share it with your mushing friends! Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share Sign up for our Newsletter HERE Join the On-Air Media Coaching waitlist for a chance to get coached on the air by Rober and get your podcast questions answered in real time. Apply now to the Team and Trail Foundation funding page and get support to turn your outdoor, education, or community project into a real impact. Apply for the Mushing® Media Accelerator and get deeper support and expert guidance tailored to your specific sponsorship and media goals. Email us at podcast@mushing.com Follow Mushing® for more muhsing news, insights, and more: Facebook | X | Instagram You can contact us here: Podcast@mushing.com © 2010-2026 by Mushing® All Rights Reserved

    26 min

  4. 22 MAR

    Rod Perry Interview: Founding the Iditarod, Yukon Quest, and Saving the Sled Dog

    In this episode of the Mushing Podcast, Robert Forto sits down with Iditarod pioneer Rod Perry for a deep and wide-ranging conversation about the origins of the race, the history of the Iditarod Trail, and the future of dog mushing. Perry reflects on his involvement in the early days of the Iditarod, including helping shape race rules, designing the iconic finisher’s patch, and contributing to the founding of the Yukon Quest alongside Leroy Shank. He also shares firsthand stories from life on the trail, including remote expeditions, trail navigation challenges, and the evolution of sled dog racing over the past five decades. The conversation explores a critical theme: the true purpose behind the creation of the Iditarod, preserving sled dogs and their role in Alaska’s history, while addressing common misconceptions about the Serum Run. Perry also discusses his work as a historian and educator, engaging thousands of visitors each year and helping bridge the gap between past and present. The episode closes with a thoughtful discussion on the modern Iditarod, including the Expedition Class, changing race dynamics, and the challenge of maintaining storytelling, culture, and authenticity in an evolving sport. Support our Work Like this episode? Share it with your mushing friends! Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share Sign up for our Newsletter HERE Join the On-Air Media Coaching waitlist for a chance to get coached on the air by Rober and get your podcast questions answered in real time. Apply now to the Team and Trail Foundation funding page and get support to turn your outdoor, education, or community project into a real impact. Apply for the Mushing® Media Accelerator and get deeper support and expert guidance tailored to your specific sponsorship and media goals. Email us at podcast@mushing.com Follow Mushing® for more muhsing news, insights, and more: Facebook | X | Instagram You can contact us here: Podcast@mushing.com © 2010-2026 by Mushing® All Rights Reserved

    1hr 13min

  5. 21 MAR

    Iditarod 54 Wrap-Up: Red Lantern Time, Race Records, and What Changed in 45 Years

    In this episode of the Mushing Podcast, the race has officially concluded, and attention turns to reflection, records, and what this year’s Iditarod tells us about the evolution of the sport. With all mushers off the trail, the focus shifts from competition to analysis ahead of the finisher’s banquet. One of the key discussions centers around the Red Lantern finish time, comparing this year’s final finisher to historical benchmarks. The episode highlights how modern Red Lantern times now rival, or even surpass, those from decades past, underscoring the dramatic advancements in breeding, training, gear, and trail strategy. Listeners also hear a musher profile of Brenda Mackey, whose career represents a deep multi-generational legacy in the sport, and a historical look back at Rick Swenson’s record-setting 1981 victory. These comparisons offer a powerful lens into how far the Iditarod has come over the past 40+ years. The episode sets the stage for the finisher’s banquet while also inviting listeners to reflect on the race as a whole, from the front runners to the final finisher, and what it means for the future of dog mushing. Support our Work Like this episode? Share it with your mushing friends! Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share Sign up for our Newsletter HERE Join the On-Air Media Coaching waitlist for a chance to get coached on the air by Rober and get your podcast questions answered in real time. Apply now to the Team and Trail Foundation funding page and get support to turn your outdoor, education, or community project into a real impact. Apply for the Mushing® Media Accelerator and get deeper support and expert guidance tailored to your specific sponsorship and media goals. Email us at podcast@mushing.com Follow Mushing® for more muhsing news, insights, and more: Facebook | X | Instagram You can contact us here: Podcast@mushing.com © 2010-2026 by Mushing® All Rights Reserved

    15 min

  6. 20 MAR

    Iditarod 54 Final Finishers: Red Lantern Award, Race Complete, and Nome Traditions

    In this episode of the Mushing Podcast, the 2026 Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race officially comes to a close as the final mushers arrive in Nome and the Red Lantern is awarded. Richie Beatty earns the Red Lantern, symbolizing perseverance and the completion of the thousand-mile journey across Alaska. With the final teams crossing under the burled arch, the race shifts fully into celebration mode as mushers prepare for the finisher’s banquet. This year stands out with nearly all teams finishing before the banquet, a rare occurrence that highlights both favorable timing and strong performances across the field. The episode also dives into the traditions that define the Iditarod, including the history of the burled arch finish line, the symbolic meaning of the Red Lantern, and the Widow’s Lamp that remains lit until the final musher completes the race. Listeners also hear a musher profile of Hannah Lyrek, an international competitor with deep roots in sled dog racing, and a look back at historic races that shaped the sport, including the 1992 Hope Race to Russia. Support our Work Like this episode? Share it with your mushing friends! Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share Sign up for our Newsletter HERE Join the On-Air Media Coaching waitlist for a chance to get coached on the air by Rober and get your podcast questions answered in real time. Apply now to the Team and Trail Foundation funding page and get support to turn your outdoor, education, or community project into a real impact. Apply for the Mushing® Media Accelerator and get deeper support and expert guidance tailored to your specific sponsorship and media goals. Email us at podcast@mushing.com Follow Mushing® for more muhsing news, insights, and more: Facebook | X | Instagram You can contact us here: Podcast@mushing.com © 2010-2026 by Mushing® All Rights Reserved

    23 min

  7. 19 MAR

    Iditarod 54 Final Stretch: Rookie of the Year, Final Mushers, and Expedition Class Update

    In this episode of the Mushing Podcast, the race moves into its final phase with just a handful of mushers remaining on the trail as they prepare to leave White Mountain and complete the final miles to Nome. Weather conditions, including a developing storm, are affecting the timing and strategy of the remaining teams. Jesse Terry is officially named Rookie of the Year after finishing in 14th place, completing the race in just under 11 days with a strong and steady performance. His run highlights the strength of this year’s rookie class, many of whom are still on the trail and finishing close together. The episode also provides an update on the Expedition Class, including Steve Curtis’ decision to end his run due to deteriorating trail conditions and safety concerns. The discussion highlights an important leadership lesson: knowing when to prioritize team safety over moving forward. Listeners also hear a musher profile of veteran competitor Jessie Royer and a discussion about the unusually high number of rookies finishing together, setting up a unique and potentially historic finish to this year’s race. Support our Work Like this episode? Share it with your mushing friends! Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share Sign up for our Newsletter HERE Join the On-Air Media Coaching waitlist for a chance to get coached on the air by Rober and get your podcast questions answered in real time. Apply now to the Team and Trail Foundation funding page and get support to turn your outdoor, education, or community project into a real impact. Apply for the Mushing® Media Accelerator and get deeper support and expert guidance tailored to your specific sponsorship and media goals. Email us at podcast@mushing.com Follow Mushing® for more muhsing news, insights, and more: Facebook | X | Instagram You can contact us here: Podcast@mushing.com © 2010-2026 by Mushing® All Rights Reserved

    29 min

  8. 18 MAR

    Iditarod 54 Day 11 Update: Jessie Holmes Wins the 2026 Iditarod as Finishers Arrive in Nome

    On this Day 11 update of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, the race has its champion as Jessie Holmes crosses under the burled arch in Nome, securing victory in just over nine days. His performance was marked by strong strategy, consistent pacing, and a healthy, high-performing team throughout the race. Travis Beals follows in second place just a few hours later, with Jeff Deeter, Paige Drobny, and Wade Mars rounding out the top five. As teams continue to arrive in Nome, the race shifts from competition to completion, with mushers finishing their thousand-mile journey across Alaska. The episode also highlights the ongoing battle for Rookie of the Year, with contenders still on the trail, and provides updates on the remaining teams working their way through White Mountain and Safety. Listeners also hear a musher profile of Bailey Vitello, a second-generation musher building his career through years of racing and dedication, as well as a historical look back at Martin Buser’s 1997 Iditarod victory and what it meant for the sport. Support our Work Like this episode? Share it with your mushing friends! Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share Sign up for our Newsletter HERE Join the On-Air Media Coaching waitlist for a chance to get coached on the air by Rober and get your podcast questions answered in real time. Apply now to the Team and Trail Foundation funding page and get support to turn your outdoor, education, or community project into a real impact. Apply for the Mushing® Media Accelerator and get deeper support and expert guidance tailored to your specific sponsorship and media goals. Email us at podcast@mushing.com Follow Mushing® for more muhsing news, insights, and more: Facebook | X | Instagram You can contact us here: Podcast@mushing.com © 2010-2026 by Mushing® All Rights Reserved

    21 min
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About

Mushing is a podcast from First Paw Media that follows the sport of dog mushing, the Iditarod, and races worldwide. Mushing is hosted by best-selling author Robert Forto (A Musher's Dream) and a team of co-hosts that bring a unique perspective to the show. During the Iditarod race each March, the show is a daily podcast that covers the race with an in-depth analysis you won't find anywhere else. In the off-season, hear interviews with mushers, behind-the-scenes news, and updates. Popular guests: Emily Robinson, Jesse Holmes, Ryan Redington, Barb Redington, Lance Mackey, Brenda Mackey, Jason Mackey, Anna and Kristy Berington, Rohn Buser, DeeDee Jonrowe, and more. Popular Podcast topics: Iditarod race stories and analysis, dryland mushing and off-season racing, interviews with mushers and racers, race preparation and training strategies, sled dog kennel life and dog care, Yukon Quest and other major races, mushing history and heritage, global mushing perspectives (international races), canicross and alternative mushing formats Community and culture in the mushing world, and more.

Information

  • Channel
    First Paw Media
  • Creator
    First Paw Media | Mushing.com
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    260
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2010-2026 First Paw Media
  • Show Website
    Mushing

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