The Avalanche Hour Podcast

The Avalanche Hour
  • 4.9 (179)
  • SPORTS
  • UPDATED DAILY
The Avalanche Hour Podcast

Podcast by Caleb Merrill

  1. Culture Eats Strategy for Breakfast: Karin Pocock

    DEC 15

    Culture Eats Strategy for Breakfast: Karin Pocock

    This episode features an interview with Karin Pocock. Karin Pocock shares her journey in the avalanche industry, discussing her experiences in both Canada and the U.S. She reflects on a pivotal avalanche incident that shaped her career and emphasizes the importance of education and training in avalanche safety. Karin also highlights the unique culture at the Silverton Avalanche School and addresses the challenges of being a female leader in a male-dominated field, advocating for inclusivity and support for future generations. In this conversation, Karin Pocock discusses the importance of hiring based on skill rather than gender, the challenges of navigating confidence and competence in high-risk avalanche work, and the significance of managing stress in demanding environments. She shares her experiences discovering the value of pushing personal limits through bike pack racing, and the necessity of fostering healthy conflict within teams. Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of education in avalanche science and the need for a supportive and empowering workplace culture. ⁠⁠Fill out our Listener Survey for the chance to win a gift card from Gordini and a pack from Arva!⁠ Music: ⁠Ketsa⁠ Art: ⁠Mike Tea⁠ Support for this episode was provided by: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Wyssen Avalanche Control⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Gordini⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠OpenSnow⁠⁠⁠⁠: use code avalanche50 for 50% off of your all-access subscription Arva Equipment: use code AVALANCHEHOUR25 for a discount on your next purchase or canister refill

    1h 16m
  2. Winter Weather Forecasting with Joel Gratz and OpenSnow

    DEC 8

    Winter Weather Forecasting with Joel Gratz and OpenSnow

    In this episode of the Avalanche Hour podcast, Caleb speaks with meteorologist Joel Gratz- founder of Open Snow, about the importance of weather forecasting for skiing and how it pertains to avalanche conditions. They unpack how much to weigh El Nino and La Nina on winter weather predictions, and Joel walks us through what goes into a forecast from OpenSnow. Joel shares insights into the features of Open Snow and discusses the intricacies of weather forecasting, particularly in relation to snow prediction. He explains the importance of the five-day window for making accurate forecasts and delves into the development and functionality of various weather models. Gratz highlights the significance of resolution in forecasting accuracy and introduces the role of AI in enhancing predictions. He also emphasizes the value of using multiple models for better accuracy and provides resources for those interested in learning more about weather and forecasting. Resources: Secrets of the Greatest Snow on Earth: Weather, Climate Change, and Finding Deep Powder in Utah's Wasatch Mountains and around the World By Jim Steenburgh ⁠Fill out our Listener Survey for the chance to win a gift card from Gordini and a pack from Arva! Music: Ketsa Art: Mike Tea Support for this episode was provided by: ⁠⁠⁠Wyssen Avalanche Control⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Gordini⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠OpenSnow⁠⁠⁠: use code avalanche50 for 50% off of your all-access subscription

    51 min
  3. The Why of Adventure and The Adventure of Why: Shiny x Ken Wylie

    DEC 1

    The Why of Adventure and The Adventure of Why: Shiny x Ken Wylie

    Ken Wylie is a Human Hazard Management innovator, formerly an IFMGA guide, and author of the book Buried.  Ken’s company, Archetypal, provides high-resolution self-awareness tools for people who work in High Potential Consequence (HPC) environments across several industries.  In this conversation, Guest host Brooke Shiny Edwards takes a deeper dive into the heart of Ken Wylie and the vision he has for (HPC) Avalanche Workers and the adventure industry.  We recommend reminding yourself of Ken’s background by re-visiting last year’s episode 8.1 when Caleb has Ken take the audience through the infamous 2003 tragedy of La Traviata.  In this episode, Shiny and Wylie explore more of the insights to be harvested from that tragedy: the archetypes of disaster and safety,  avenues of self-growth that can inform our decision making and how to embrace our shadow and light within, which may indeed be the greatest opportunity yet to embody our highest selves and manage the human factor castle.    So grab a cup of tea, a blanket and snuggle up by the fire for a deep and open hearted philosophical journey that hopefully guides you to integral moments of self-reflection that might help you stay safe this season. Fill out our Listener Survey Music: Ketsa Art: Mike Tea Resources: The Evolving Self: A Psychology for the Third Millennium. Milhaly Csikszentmihalyi Robert Kegan Stages in Adult Development: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bhRNMj6UNYY The Evolving Self: Robert Kegan. Human Journey Card Decks Archetypal Open Enrollment Courses Archetypal Workplace Courses Support for this episode was provided by: ⁠⁠Wyssen Avalanche Control⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Gordini⁠⁠ ⁠⁠OpenSnow⁠⁠: use code avalanche50 for 50% off of your all-access subscription ⁠Beacon Guidebooks: use code AVSAR to save 25% off the popular Avalanche Search and Rescue: A Backcountry Field Guide

    1h 18m
  4. 7 Irons in 6 Fires: Jake Hutchinson x Gabrielle Antonioli

    NOV 22

    7 Irons in 6 Fires: Jake Hutchinson x Gabrielle Antonioli

    In this episode of the Avalanche Hour, host Jake Hutchinson sits down with Gabrielle Antonioli, a forecaster for the Bridger Teton Avalanche Center and founder of the A3’s Resilience Project. They discuss Gabrielle's journey into avalanche forecasting, the importance of mental health support in the avalanche community, and the need for inclusive avalanche education for motorized users. The conversation also delves into the unique challenges of forecasting on the Going to the Sun Road, highlighting the complexities of forecasting for wet snow natural avalanches.  In this conversation, Gabrielle and Hutch discuss the importance of mentorship and community, and emphasize the need for a supportive environment for future generations. The Fundamental Process in Conventional Avalanche Forecasting by Ed LaChapelle We hope you enjoy the conversation. Music: Ketsa  Art: Mike Tea Please Fill out our Listener Survey! Support for this episode was provided by: ⁠Wyssen Avalanche Control⁠ ⁠Gordini⁠ ⁠OpenSnow⁠: use code avalanche50 for 50% off of your all-access subscription Raide Research: use code avhour for 10% your next pack or bibs!

    1h 16m
  5. Talking to the Mountain: Jason Antin x Vince Anderson

    NOV 15

    Talking to the Mountain: Jason Antin x Vince Anderson

    In this episode guest host Jason Antin sits down with Vince Anderson.  Vince shares his journey from growing up in Golden, Colorado, to becoming a prominent figure in the alpine climbing and guiding communities. He discusses his early experiences with climbing and skiing, the early days of the AMGA, and the evolution of avalanche education. In this conversation, he discusses the evolution of educational practices in guiding, reflecting on his own experiences and the changes he has witnessed over the years. He shares key turning points in his career, including influential mentors and pivotal moments that shaped his development as a guide. The discussion also delves into the challenges of balancing parenthood with a career in guiding, highlighting the complexities of risk management and decision-making in the mountains.  Skyward Mountaineering Music: Age Diamante Art: Mike Tea Fill out our Listener Survey! Support for this episode was provided by: ⁠Wyssen Avalanche Control⁠ ⁠Gordini⁠ ⁠OpenSnow⁠: use code avalanche50 for 50% off of your all-access subscription ⁠Propagation Labs⁠

    1h 27m
  6. A ski on either side of the border with Evan Stevens

    NOV 1

    A ski on either side of the border with Evan Stevens

    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

    1h 30m
  7. Bridging Mountains and Minds: Sean Zimmerman-Wall x Jess Shade

    OCT 24

    Bridging Mountains and Minds: Sean Zimmerman-Wall x Jess Shade

    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

    1h 2m
  8. Fear and Coping in Alaska: Sara Boilen x Cody Townsend

    OCT 15

    Fear and Coping in Alaska: Sara Boilen x Cody Townsend

    Episode 9.2: Dr. Sara Boilen Interviews Cody Townsend. Cody Townsend discusses The Fifty Project , a web series documenting his attempt to climb and ski all 50 classic ski descents of North America. He reflects on the transition from being seen as a fearless, ego-driven skier to showcasing vulnerability and the behind-the-scenes reality of the sport. Cody shares his experience of a traumatic trip in Alaska where he encountered his limits and felt overwhelmed by fear. He discusses the consequences of risk-taking and the importance of pushing oneself and embracing failure. Cody Townsend reflects on the importance of encountering fear and discomfort to live a richer, more three-dimensional life. He discusses how challenging situations in the mountains can lead to contentment and a deeper appreciation for everyday life. However, he also acknowledges the need to balance risk-taking with its consequences on oneself and the community. Townsend emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and self-analysis in decision-making, as well as the need to prioritize coming home at the end of the day. He discusses how becoming a parent has shifted his perspective and made him reevaluate the level of risk he is willing to take. Townsend plans to regain trust in himself by slowly reintegrating into the mountains without putting pressure on himself. Thank you to the sponsors of this episode: Wyssen Avalanche Control Gordini: Use code snowpro40 to receive 40% Gordini gear through October. OpenSnow: Use code avalanche50 to receive 50% off their premium subscription. IPA Collective: Industry pros sign up here for great pro-deals. We want to hear from you! Fill out our Listener Survey.

    1h 25m
See All (199)

4.9
out of 5
179 Ratings

About

Podcast by Caleb Merrill

Information

  • Creator
    The Avalanche Hour
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2024
  • Episodes
    199
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © The Avalanche Hour
  • Show Website
    The Avalanche Hour Podcast

You Might Also Like

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes, and get the latest updates.
Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada