The Avalanche Hour Podcast

The Avalanche Hour
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The Avalanche Hour Podcast

Podcast by Caleb Merrill

  1. That's What She Said....Sara Interviews Andrea Mannberg

    1D AGO

    That's What She Said....Sara Interviews Andrea Mannberg

    In this episode, Sara Boilen interviews Andrea Manberg. Andrea is an economist and researcher who spends her time thinking about human behavior, decision-making, and risk in avalanche terrain. Having survived a pretty brutal avalanche herself, Andrea is passionate about understanding what motivates us toward risk and how we position ourselves to enjoy our pursuits while staying as safe as we want to. She presented at ISSW on her paper, Is it a man’s world? Gendered professional experiences in snow and avalanche safety and came on the podcast to talk to Sara about the reality faced by males, females, and non binary folks in an industry long-dominated by men. The conversation delves into various topics including what makes a good snow and avalanche professional, mentorship, and menstruation. Join us as we deconstruct the myth that it is, and needs to be, a man’s world.  Website for CARE (where Andrea Works): https://en.uit.no/ansatte/andrea.mannberg There, you can find out more about Andrea and what the good folks at CARE are doing as well as links to Andrea’s publications.  If you’d like to watch more of Andrea, here’s a link to a great talk she gave back in 2017 with the Sawtooth Avalanche Center: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C7xSutCesLQ Read the research by Andrea and her colleagues, as presented at ISSW Tromso here: https://arc.lib.montana.edu/snow-science/objects/ISSW2024_O11.6.pdf Support for this Episode is provided by: Wyssen Avalanche Control Gordini OpenSnow Propagation Labs

    1h 16m
  2. The Doctor is In: Dr. Christopher Van Tilburg

    MAR 15

    The Doctor is In: Dr. Christopher Van Tilburg

    In this episode, Caleb sits down with Dr. Christopher Van Tilburg of Hood River, Oregon. Van Tilburg is an American physician and author specializing in emergency, wilderness, travel, environmental, occupational, and public health medicine. He is author of 11 books on outdoor recreation, wilderness medicine, and international travel, including three memoirs on mountain rescue, including Crisis on Mount Hood: Stories from 100 years of Mountain Rescue, forthcoming May 2025Van Tilburg is on staff at Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital in Hood River, Oregon, USA where he works at Occupational and Travel Medicine, in the Emergency Department, and at the Providence Mountain Clinic at Mount Hood Meadows Ski Resort. In addition, he works as a physician on expeditions around the world, on cruise ships, on humanitarian medical relief programs, and as an expert witness on wilderness medicine. He is also a mountain rescue doctor with Hood River Crag Rats, the oldest mountain rescue team in the United States, established in 1926 in Hood River, Oregon, USA. He is medical director for four search and rescue teams: Hood River Crag Rats, Pacific Northwest SAR, Clackamas County SAR and Portland Mountain Rescue. He serves as Public Health Officer in Oregon for Hood River County. He serves as Medical Examiner for Hood River, Gilliam, Sherman, Wasco, and Wheeler Counties in Oregon. Dr. Van Tilburg has been honored three times by the Wilderness Medical Society. He received Dian Simpkins Award for Service, the Haiti Humanitarian Research Award, and the Ice Axe Award for Service. His book ''Mountain Rescue Doctor: Wilderness Medicine in the Extremes of Nature'' was shortlisted for Banff Festival of Mountain Books and Oregon Book Awards in 2007 and was Readers Digest Editor’s Pick for November 2007. His book ''Adrenaline Junkie’s Bucket List: 100 Extreme Adventures to Do Before You Die'' received the Far West Ski Association Bill Berry Award for outstanding printed media in 2014Van Tilburg was the lead author for ''Wilderness Medical Society Practice Guidelines for Prevention and Management of Avalanche and Nonavalanche Snow Burial Accidents,'' a multinational effort published in 2017 and updated in 2024. We discuss some of the salient points of CVT's research, lessons delivered through many SAR calls, and current best practices for avalanche victim post-extrication care. We hope you enjoy. Music: Ketsa Artwork: Mike Tea Links to more of Van Tilburg's work

    59 min
  3. Humility in the Face of Historic Uncertainty: Becs Hodgetts

    MAR 1

    Humility in the Face of Historic Uncertainty: Becs Hodgetts

    Sean Zimmerman-Wall steps in front of the mic to bring you another great interview with Rebecca “Becs” Hodgetts. Becs began ski patrolling in the mid-1990s on Mt Ruapehu, a volcano in the central plateau of New Zealand’s North Island. She went on to work at other resorts in New Zealand, Canada, and the US. She worked 12 years at Arapahoe Basin in Colorado, first as an avalanche technician and later as Assistant Ski Patrol Director. She joined the Colorado Avalanche Information Center in 2013 and worked first as a Backcountry, then as a Highway Forecaster, and finally as a Regional Lead Forecaster for southern Colorado. In July 2024, she took a new role with the US Forest Service's National Avalanche Center (NAC). In this role, she will support the NAC's mission to improve backcountry and ski area safety by reducing avalanche risk on and around National Forests. This mission includes training and transferring information and technology to the field, managing the Artillery for Avalanche Mitigation Program, and coordinating US avalanche centers through the National Avalanche Forecast Platform. Show Notes: March 2019 Historic Avalanche Cycle Video produced by CAIC https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BlkH-Mnzddc Interview with CAIC Director Ethan Greene produced by The Powder Cloud https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YolFA80sP5Y National Avalanche Center and Avalanche.org https://avalanche.org/national-avalanche-center/ The Starting Zone by Karl Birkeland https://support.friendsofcaic.org/products/the-starting-zone-at-the-interface-between-avalanche-science-and-practice?srsltid=AfmBOopaIynaGIjcEwbEhudjbTuCHTWlsHXgIFQf26ne3tfbgcABdFj- Thanks to the sponsors of this episode: Wyssen Avalanche Control Gordini USA OpenSnow IPA Collective Music by Age Diamante Art by Mike Tea

    1h 16m
  4. Reading the Signs: Avalanche Risk and Decision-Making with Ian McCammon

    FEB 20

    Reading the Signs: Avalanche Risk and Decision-Making with Ian McCammon

    Ian McCammon, often considered the godfather of human factors in avalanche education, has a unique background with a foot in scientific research and another in backcountry exploration. With formal training in physics, materials science, and engineering, Ian started in R&D before becoming deeply involved in avalanche education in the 1990s. Following the loss of his friend Steve Carruthers in an avalanche, he was driven to study how experienced individuals make fatal decisions despite knowing better. His work has since shaped modern avalanche education and risk management strategies. Ian developed the FACETS acronym: Familiarity: We feel safer in places we've been before, even when conditions change. Acceptance: The desire to fit in can push individuals to take unnecessary risks. Commitment/Consistency: The drive to follow through on a plan despite new information. Expert Halo: Over-reliance on an individual perceived as an expert. Tracks/Scarcity: The fear of missing out on first tracks can cloud judgment. Social Proof: Seeing others on a slope can create a false sense of security. His research suggests that merely teaching these factors isn’t enough to change behavior—awareness must be coupled with tools for self-evaluation. PDFs help individuals identify their personal biases and recurring decision-making flaws. By reflecting on past experiences and recognizing patterns in our own choices, we can slow down and make more objective decisions in the field. Ian also created ALPTRUTh, an easy-to-remember checklist that has been proven effective in evaluating avalanche risk. More than 90% of avalanche accidents occur when three or more of these factors are present: A: Avalanches in the past 48 hours. L: Recent loading from snow, wind, or rain. P: Obvious avalanche path present. T: Terrain trap below. R: Avalanche danger rating of "considerable" or higher. U: Signs of unstable snow (cracking, collapsing, whoomping). TH: Thawing or rapid warming conditions. McCammon introduced the Stability Wheel, a simplified model explaining the three conditions necessary for an avalanche: Strength: The ability of the snowpack to resist force. Structure: Weak layers and slab formations. Energy Release: The capacity for a fracture to propagate. Ian explains how propagation propensity, friction, and fracture toughness are now being studied in more depth to improve predictive tools like the Extended Column Test (ECT) and Propagation Saw Test (PST). One of Ian’s strongest messages in the episode is the importance of margins—the space we create between ourselves and dangerous terrain to account for uncertainty. He emphasizes that uncertainty is often underestimated and that decision-makers must continually assess whether they are acting on knowledge or assumptions. Ian discusses a study that found significant human and device error in slope angle measurements, with a margin of error between 3-6 degrees. This has implications for decision-making, especially when relying on digital elevation models and inclinometer apps. Ian highlights the need for new research in decision-making tools, material-based snowpack models, and practical field applications of computational advancements. He also discusses the role of technology in avalanche education, including digital versions of his Snow & Avalanche Fieldbook and new methods for risk communication. “Every time you get on a slope, you have to look at it as if you're seeing it for the first time.” – Ian McCammon FACETS and Human Factors in Avalanche Accidents ALPTRUTh: Evaluating Risk Factors in Avalanche Accidents Stability Wheel and Snowpack Fracture Mechanics Decision-Making in Avalanche Terrain: Cognitive Biases Snow & Avalanche Fieldbook (White Book) • Host: Jake Hutchinson • Guest: Ian McCammon • Producer: Cameron Griffin • Wyssen:www.wyssen.com • OpenSnow:www.opensnow.com • Gordini:www.gordini.com • Arva:https://us.arva-equipment.com/ Music by Ketsa• Campfire

    1h 19m
  5. Coloring with all the Crayons: A3's Professional Education Manager Jen Reddy

    FEB 15

    Coloring with all the Crayons: A3's Professional Education Manager Jen Reddy

    Jen Reddy is a total low-key badass who sat down with Caleb for a great conversation about her work with Teton County Search and Rescue and the American Avalanche Association. Jen is tasked with overseeing the guidance of the professional training program amongst participating providers within the US. Jen and Caleb talk about her early years of backcountry skiing, a close call, and some influences that urged her to get involved as a volunteer with Teton County Search and Rescue. They discuss some of her work at A3 and what has been going on behind the scenes to elevate the level of professional training in the US. Tune in to hear more. Music: Ketsa Art: Mike Tea Listener Survey Resources: A3 Pro Training Program ICAR 2024 Congress Teton County Search and Rescue

    1h 1m
  6. Deep Slabs and Decision-Making – A Legacy of Safety with Chris Stethem and Grant Statham (Part 2)

    FEB 1

    Deep Slabs and Decision-Making – A Legacy of Safety with Chris Stethem and Grant Statham (Part 2)

    Episode Overview In this second part of their conversation, Chris Stethem and Grant Statham dig deeper into the evolving world of avalanche safety, focusing on how decision-making frameworks and advanced communication practices have reshaped the industry. They begin by exploring the development of InfoEx, reflecting on how the system has grown over time and identifying areas for potential improvement. This discussion naturally segues into Chris’s early days as an avalanche consultant, laying the groundwork for the professionalization of avalanche research and the formation of new training programs. As the episode progresses, Chris and Grant share insights on how the CAA Level 3 Course came into being, noting the considerable skill set and qualifications now required to enroll in higher-level avalanche education. They highlight the rising standards for certification in various avalanche-related jobs, emphasizing how worker safety has driven regulatory changes and communication strategies designed to put people in safer positions on the mountain. Bringing their vast experience to bear, Chris and Grant examine spatial variability in different types of terrain, describing how certain slopes may foster specific avalanche problems. They delve into the tension between scientific assessments, practical experience, and the uncertainties that can influence life-and-death decisions in avalanche terrain. Their stories illustrate how collaboration, mentorship, and continually evolving best practices have shaped modern avalanche safety and will continue to do so. Key Topics Covered • InfoEx Evolution – The origins, growth, and potential improvements of this critical data-sharing tool • Early Avalanche Consultancy – How initial consulting efforts opened doors for professional research • Birth of the CAA Level 3 Course – The skill set, accomplishments, and certification pathways crucial for advanced avalanche work • Raising the Bar for Worker Safety – How advocacy, regulation, and improved communication led to better safety policies • Spatial Variability & Avalanche Types – Linking different slopes to specific avalanche risks and managing uncertainty in dynamic conditions Crew • Host: Dom Baker • Guests: Chris Stethem and Grant Statham • Producer: Cameron Griffin Sponsors • Wyssen: www.wyssen.com • OpenSnow: www.opensnow.com • Gordini: www.gordini.com • Raide Reaserch: www.raideresearch.com Music by Gravy • Lost My Voice

    1h 18m
  7. Deep Snow, Deeper Lessons – The Origins of Avalanche Safety with Chris Stethem and Grant Statham (Part 1)

    JAN 24

    Deep Snow, Deeper Lessons – The Origins of Avalanche Safety with Chris Stethem and Grant Statham (Part 1)

    Episode Overview In this first part of a two-episode series, The Avalanche Hour Podcast features an in-depth conversation with avalanche industry legends Chris Stethem and Grant Statham. These two have dedicated their lives to advancing avalanche safety, education, and research, and their collective impact has shaped how we think about risk management in snow-covered terrain. The episode begins with the Granduc Mine Avalanche incident in Canada, a pivotal event that underscored the critical need for better risk assessment and communication systems. From there, Chris and Grant explore the origins of avalanche safety practices during the early “cowboy” days, where trial and error led to life-saving lessons. Listeners will also hear about: • Defining avalanche scales and aspects to improve communication and ensure messages reach diverse audiences effectively. • The snowpack evolution of the 1976-77 winter, where facets became prominent, and the impacts of climate change began to show. • A terrifying near-miss at a FIS ski race, where an avalanche ran into coaches, illustrating the gaps in early avalanche response planning. • The development and introduction of avalanche beacons, from professional use to their eventual adoption by recreational users. • Spatial planning for avalanche paths, with lessons drawn from Utah’s structural defenses and how they informed better land-use decisions. Chris and Grant also reflect on how communication methods have evolved over time, emphasizing the importance of tailoring messages to the audience—whether professionals or recreational backcountry travelers—to ensure safety in avalanche terrain. This episode sets the stage for an enlightening second part, where they’ll dive deeper into modern advancements, risk management techniques, and more. Resources & Links Mentioned • Wyssen Avalanche Control • OpenSnow • Gordini • Raide Research Crew • Host: Dom Baker • Guests: Chris Stethem & Grant Statham • Producer: Cameron Griffin Sponsors • Wyssen Avalanche Control • OpenSnow • Gordini • Raide Research Music by Gravy • Song: Lost My Voice

    1h 32m
  8. From Horses to Horizons: Liz King’s Avalanche Education Journey

    JAN 15

    From Horses to Horizons: Liz King’s Avalanche Education Journey

    Episode Overview In this engaging episode, host Jason Antin dives into a captivating conversation with Liz King, a renowned leader in avalanche education and mountain safety. Liz shares her unique journey from her unexpected beginnings in Houston, Texas, to becoming a key figure in the avalanche education world. As the Avalanche Program Director for both the American Avalanche Institute (AAI) and the Colorado Mountain School (CMS), Liz oversees comprehensive avalanche programming, from recreational courses to professional certifications. Liz’s story begins with a love for the mountains that led her to the University of Montana, where she first discovered her passion for the outdoors. Her career started with horse packing at NOLS, transitioned to ski patrolling, and grew into a prominent role as an avalanche educator and guide. Liz reflects on her path, discussing the evolving landscape of avalanche education, the challenges of managing large-scale programs, and the importance of mentorship in outdoor leadership. This episode offers deep insights into Liz’s professional evolution, her perspective on student engagement, and the advancements in avalanche safety technology. Jason and Liz discuss the shifting demographics of avalanche education students, the balance between recreational and professional training, and Liz’s personal goals as she navigates her leadership roles. The conversation also highlights Liz’s reflections on mentorship, her passion for empowering the backcountry community, and her dedication to maintaining personal connections in the mountains. With humor and authenticity, Liz shares her “personal disaster flags” (PDFs), her thoughts on the role of mentorship in her career, and her excitement for skiing in new mountain ranges every year. Whether you’re a seasoned avalanche educator or new to the backcountry world, this episode is packed with valuable insights, inspiration, and a glimpse into the mind of a true mountain professional. Resources & Links Mentioned • American Avalanche Institute (AAI): www.avalancheinstitute.com • Colorado Mountain School (CMS): www.coloradomountainschool.com • American Avalanche Association (A3): www.avalanche.org • Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center: www.jhavalanche.org Crew • Host: Jason Antin • Guest: Liz King • Producer: Caleb Merrill and Cameron Griffin Sponsors • Wyssen: www.wyssen.com • OpenSnow: www.opensnow.com • Gordini: www.gordini.com • Beacon Guidebooks: www.beaconguidebooks.com  Music by Age Diamante: • Chill Pah

    1h 5m
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    4.9
    out of 5
    183 Ratings

    About

    Podcast by Caleb Merrill

    Information

    • Creator
      The Avalanche Hour
    • Years Active
      2017 - 2025
    • Episodes
      209
    • Rating
      Explicit
    • Copyright
      © The Avalanche Hour
    • Show Website
      The Avalanche Hour Podcast

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