Threshold: Recent Episodes
Chad Salmela
If you're in on the nitty gritty of endurance sports like cross-country skiing, biathlon, cycling, triathlon and marathon running, cross the Threshold and dive deeper than what the race broadcast shows.
Hosted by Chad Salmela and produced by Chris Parr.
He's the longest running collegiate ski coach in history - we said it. Hear from Cory Schwartz, University of New Hampshire ski coach for 42 years - in his final days before retirement - as he talks about his successes coaching the technical aspects of skiing... but how all of the other stuff may be what's more important.
This episode is sponsored by AriensCo. Visit ariensnordiccenter.com to learn about the 4-season nordic center in Brillion, Wisconsin.
With guest Cory Schwartz
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Bill McKibben is an American writer, climate advocate and Wikipedia even says he's been mentioned as possible future Secretary of the Interior or Secretary of Energy. He's also a cross-country skier. So, Chad talks with Bill about the future of skiing in a world where climate change is affecting ski venues worldwide.
This episode is sponsored by AriensCo. Visit ariensnordiccenter.com to learn about the 4-season nordic center in Brillion, Wisconsin.
With guest Bill McKibben
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Chad catches up with Bryan Fish IN PERSON at the Spring US Cross Country Ski Championships. Bryan works at the US Ski and Snowboard Development Director and has the most up close perspective on the growth of US skiing right from the roots of it all.
This episode is sponsored by AriensCo. Visit AriensNordic.com for details about their one of a kind nordic center - complete with a biathlon range - just South of Green Bay in Brillion, WI.
with guest Bryan Fish
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
This has been a very busy stretch for us at Threshold. One of us becoming a father for the first time in the last few weeks and all the imperative concentration that goes with that; and the other juggling 3 jobs all converging on massive high points. Well, in terms of Threshold, it has had us scrambling to meet what we might expect our listeners are waiting for. We recognize that this Birkie preview is coming in just under the wire with the event already underway in it's low-snow form, and we appreciate your patience and understanding.Chad's "hangover" ended up actually being Covid, post facto. So he regrets his inaccurate statement in closing that he'll see you all at the Birkie. He will not. A reminder, among so many other things weird this winter, that some things are more important than others...Have a great Birkie weekend and enjoy meeting David and Jessica on this episode.
- The guys at Threshold
This episode is sponsored by AriensCo. Visit AriensNordic.com for details about their one of a kind nordic center - complete with a biathlon range - just South of Green Bay in Brillion, WI.
Donate to The American Birkebeiner's Mount Telemark Village at: birkie.com/mtv
With guests Jessica Yeaton and David Norris
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Well, if you were in Minneapolis last weekend, you probably have that 'Loppet Cup Hangover" feeling. To bring ourselves back to the glory, Chad talks with Kevin Bolger about his experience and what it meant to the World Cup athletes to race in the US, in front of an objectively incredible crowd.
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with guest Kevin Bolger
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
US Skiing has seen a rapid growth to the top of the sport over the past couple of decades. We've all seen it... and watch the results of this growth today. But at one time, things were quite the opposite. That is, until Kikkan Randall sprung onto the World Cup, leading the US to places they'd never been before. Now, a documentary about Kikkan is premiering in cities around the country. Chad asks Kikkan about this experience and where we can see it.
This episode is sponsored by Fischer. To learn more about the Fischer Speedmax Helium ski and the Fischer Carbonlite boots, visit fischersports.com
Learn more about "Kikkan" the documentary: https://www.kikkan.com/film/
Tickets for the Minneapolis screening: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/kikkan-documentary-minneapolis-tickets-798838285817?aff=oddtdtcreator
Tickets for the Wisconsin screening: https://www.theparkcenter.com/events/kikkan-movie
With guest Kikkan Randall
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Patreon producer: Michael Swan
Before the world's best skiers make their way to North America, Chad and Rick Kapala discuss the results and storylines from the 3rd period of the World Cup circuit.
Join us on PATREON: patreon.com/user?u=93007287
with guest Rick Kapala
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
The 2023-2024 Tour de Ski is now in the rearview and it's time to reflect on the numerous compelling storylines that glued us to the screen this year. Who better to recap these storylines than the man on the broadcast and your host, Chad Salmela.
With Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
The Trail to Gold Program funds talented women coaches to join the US Ski Team coaching staff during the World Cup racing season. Chad talks to Erin Moening, Team Birkie coach and the most recent coach who just finished her time as part of the Trail to Gold Program.
Learn more about Salomon's dedication to sustainability and view their sustainably produced gear at Salomon.com
JOIN US ON PATREON! patreon.com/user?u=93007287
With guest Erin Moening
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Chad digs into the Biathlon World Cup with special guest and German analyst, Herbert Fritzenwenger, who - if you don't know - you'll be pleased to get to know.
Learn more about Salomon's dedication to sustainability and view their sustainably produced gear at Salomon.com
JOIN US ON PATREON! patreon.com/user?u=93007287
with guest Herbert Fritzenwenger
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Chad digs in on the big shakeup on the World Cup this year: the flourocarbon ban... and how the US Ski Team is pulling away from the rest of the field when it comes to ski speed.
This episode is sponsored by AriensCo. Visit AriensNordic.com for details about their one of a kind nordic center - complete with a biathlon range - just South of Green Bay in Brillion, WI.
With guest Chris Hecker
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Chad sits down with Ben Ogden to discuss not only his own standout performances that kicked off the 2023-2024 season, but Team USA as a whole.
Threshold is sponsored by Salomon. Learn more about Salomon's dedication to sustainability and view their sustainably produced gear at Salomon.com .
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Heading into the 2023-2024 Cross Country Ski and Biathlon World Cups, we gather listener questions to flip the microphone on Chad and get some much needed insight.
with guest Chad Salmela
and host (?) Chris Parr
Learn about how the Italian Biathlon rose from struggling times to win the World Championship relay with Italian Biathlon Shooting Coach Jonne Kahkonen.
Write Chad a question on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thresholdpodca1
Learn more about Salomon's dedication to sustainability and view their sustainably produced gear at Salomon.com
JOIN US ON PATREON! patreon.com/user?u=93007287
with guest Jonne Kahkonen
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Nat Herz IS journalism. In the best possible way. As the co-host of the Devon Kershaw Show and often the only North American cross country ski reporter on site at World Cup races and the Olympics, Nat has a perspective unlike any other. Listen to him and Chad talk about what it's like reporting on this weird sport.
This episode is sponsored by AriensCo. Visit AriensNordic.com for details about their one of a kind nordic center - complete with a biathlon range - just South of Green Bay in Brillion, WI.
with guest Nat Herz
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Today we discuss how the sport of nordic skiing is changing, so much so that athletes are now aligning themselves with branded teams, as opposed to national teams. What does this mean for the sport and could this come to the World Cup?
Learn more about Salomon's dedication to sustainability and view their sustainably produced gear at Salomon.com
JOIN US ON PATREON! patreon.com/user?u=93007287
With guests Jostein Vinjerui & Trond Nystad
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Jake Brown and Paul Schommer went from trying a new sport for themselves in biathlon, to becoming Olympians in 9 years. Now, they are leaders on the fast rising US Biathlon team. Hear from them about their struggles getting started with the sport, successes on the World Cup, and what's ahead this season.
This episode is sponsored by AriensCo. Visit AriensNordic.com for details about their one of a kind nordic center - complete with a biathlon range - just South of Green Bay in Brillion, WI.
With guests Jake Brown and Paul Schommer
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Andy Newell has skied on the FIS World Cup for 17 years, the longest of any American in history. Hear about his experience as one of the best skiers in the world and how he now coaches based on that experience.
Learn more about Salomon's dedication to sustainability and view their sustainably produced gear at Salomon.com
JOIN US ON PATREON! patreon.com/user?u=93007287
With guest Andy Newell
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
In 2019, Ariens - the company known for making snow blowers - backed the US Biathlon Team... then quickly set off to make a one of a kind nordic center, complete with a biathlon range South of Green Bay in Brillion, WI.
Hear from the Ariens employees on how they pulled this incredible feat off and what it means to the nordic ski community across the country.
This episode is sponsored by AriensCo. Visit AriensNordic.com for details.
With guests Tara Perre and Sean Becker
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
He's Frida Karlsson's coach, as well as the coach of the German Women's Cross Country ski team - who have been on the rise for the past several years. Threshold welcomes our first return guest on the podcast: Per Nilsson
With guest Per Nilsson
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Julia Kern had the opportunity to pursue basketball, but chose nordic skiing... then quickly found her way onto the World Cup podium, and now carries a World Championship bronze medal. Threshold catches up with Julia after the US Ski Team Bend camp.
This episode of Threshold is sponsored by AriensCo, the leader in outdoor power equipment. To learn about their nordic center in Brillion, Wisconsin, visit: ariensnordic.com
With guest Julia Kern
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
After finishing 3rd in the Alpe Cermis Tour de Ski climb, 15th place in her grueling 30km Olympic debut, and fresh off of her victory at Marathon du Mont Blanc - Laukli discusses her love for the mountains.
Learn more about Salomon's dedication to sustainability and view their sustainably produced gear at Salomon.com
JOIN US ON PATREON! patreon.com/user?u=93007287
With guest: Sophia Laukli
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
The "High Performance Director" is a somewhat new - but now essential - position in endurance sports. Today on Threshold, we get into the weeds by talking training with USA Triathlon's High Performance Director, Ryan Bolton.
Threshold is sponsored by Salomon. Learn more about Salomon's dedication to sustainability and view their sustainably produced gear at Salomon.com
JOIN US ON PATREON! patreon.com/user?u=93007287
With guest Ryan Bolton
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Hosted by Chris Parr
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Norwegian Elite skier and ski pundit, Petter Skinstad gives insight as to why Norway, with only 5.4 million people, leads the Olympic medal count.
With guest Petter Skinstad
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
To recap the cross-country ski Period World Cup races and the fight for the crystal globes, Threshold brings in former SMS Head Coach , Patrick O'Brien.
With guest Patrick O'Brien
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Threshold catches up with former US Biathlete and current Chair of the IBU Athletes' Committee, Clare Egan to recap the biathlon season.
With guest Clare Egan
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
From Rosie Brennan's epic 30km battle, to Jessie Diggin's and Julia Kern's bronze medal Team Sprint Performance, to Jessie's historic gold medal... Threshold breaks down the 2023 World Championships with US Ski Team Head Coach, Matt Whitcomb
With guest Matt Whitcomb
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Sverre Caldwell, father of Sophie Caldwell has greatly influenced American skiing for the past few decades. We explore what he thinks is the secret to success and where American skiing is headed.
With guest Sverre Caldwell
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
The American Birkebeiner has for a long time been a machine in American nordic skiing, but how do the inner workings function? Threshold talks with Birkie Executive Director, Ben Popp, just one week away from North America's biggest cross country ski race.
This episode of Threshold is sponsored by Salomon. Learn more about Salomon's dedication to sustainability and view their sustainably produced gear at Salomon.com
With guest Ben Popp
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
At the 2022 Beijing Olympics, Deedra Irwin finished the 15km Biathlon event in 7th place - the best EVER finish by a US Biathlete at the Olympics. This, after competing in the sport for only 4 years. Threshold catches up with Deedra just before the World Championships to hear her story.
This episode of Threshold is sponsored by Salomon. Learn more about Salomon's dedication to sustainability and view their sustainably produced gear at Salomon.com
With guest Deedra Irwin
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
To recap the cross-country ski Period 2 World Cup races from the Tour de Ski, Livingo, Les Rousses, and Toblach, Threshold brings in Team Birkie Coach, Caitlin Gregg.
This episode of Threshold is sponsored by Salomon. Learn more about Salomon's dedication to sustainability and view their sustainably produced gear at Salomon.com
With guest Caitlin Gregg
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Ben Ogden, sitting as the 9th best skier in the world... catches up with Threshold about halfway through the season.
This episode of Threshold is sponsored by Salomon. Learn more about Salomon's dedication to sustainability and view their sustainably produced gear at Salomon.com
With guest Ben Ogden
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Period 2 on the biathlon World Cup has been chock-full of storylines. To recap the races from Pokljuka, Ruhpolding, and Antholz, Threshold brings in Director of High Performance for US Biathlon, and World Champion biathlete, Lowell Bailey.
This episode of Threshold is sponsored by Salomon. Learn more about Salomon's dedication to sustainability and view their sustainably produced gear at Salomon.com
With guest Lowell Bailey
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Campbell Wright, at just 19 years old, shocked the Biathlon world by shooting clean and finishing 15th in the 20km World Cup at Antholz, Italy.
But the most chocking of all... he was racing for a country rarely - actually, never - seen near the top of Biathlon World Cup results: New Zealand.
Hear from Campbell about what it took to become a world class biathlete from an under represented country and what he's up to now.
This episode of Threshold is sponsored by Salomon. Learn more about Salomon's dedication to sustainability and view their sustainably produced gear at Salomon.com
With guest Campbell Wright
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Ivan Babikov, the Canadian from Russia has one heck of a story. From growing up in Russia, to pursuing the North American ski racing scene as part of the Subaru Factory Team, to then skiing for Russia, to THEN skiing for Canada... Ivan's perspective is one of a kind.
This episode of Threshold is sponsored by Salomon. Learn more about Salomon's dedication to sustainability and view their sustainably produced gear at Salomon.com
With guest Ivan Babikov
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Chad talks with Kristen Bourne, US Ski Team Coach, and Armin Auchentaller, US Biathlon Head Coach, to reflect on Period One of the Nordic and Biathlon World Cups AND predict what's to come.
This episode of Threshold is sponsored by Salomon. Learn more about Salomon's dedication to sustainability and view their sustainably produced gear at Salomon.com
With guests Kristen Bourne and Armin Auchentaller
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Beckie Scott's tells the story of her 2002 gold medal, her career fighting for clean sport, and why took a step back.
This episode of Threshold is sponsored by Salomon. Learn more about Salomon's dedication to sustainability and view their sustainably produced gear at Salomon.com
With guest Beckie Scott
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Devon Kershaw, host of the Devon Kershaw Show by Fasterskier, talks with Threshold about his childhood, skiing at the top of the world, becoming a World Champion, and why he's so critical of FIS.
This episode of Threshold is sponsored by Salomon. Learn more about Salomon's dedication to sustainability and view their sustainably produced gear at Salomon.com
With guest Devon Kershaw
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Threshold talks with US Ski and Snowboard Program Director, Chris Grover, about all of the changes coming to the World Cup this year. And all that's not changing.
Support the next generation of US skiing by donating to the NNF here: https://nationalnordicfoundation.org/donate/
With guest Chris Grover
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Season 3 of Threshold kicks off with American skiing legend and our friend, Jessie Diggins!
This episode of Threshold is sponsored by Salomon. Learn more about Salomon's dedication to sustainability and view their sustainably produced gear at Salomon.com
With guest Jessie Diggins
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Visit RED-S.com for more information on Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport
This episode of Threshold is sponsored by Salomon. Learn more about Salomon's dedication to sustainability and view their sustainably produced gear at Salomon.com
This episode of Threshold is sponsored by Salomon. Salomon’s great tradition of top quality trail shoes, now extends to the road. Find the shoes that are right for you with Salomon’s shoe finder at Salomon.com
Kara Goucher was the Silver medalist in the 2007 10,000m Track and Field World Championships. She went on to become a whistleblower that took down her former (now banned) coach Alberto Salazar. Kara is now an NBC commentator for this year's Track and Field World Championships.
Threshold catches up with her just before the 2022 Track and Field World Championships to reflect on her silver medal, endurance sport doping, nutrition issues, and a preview of the World Championships themselves.
With guest Kara Goucher
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
What happens when a sports best athletes, meet, fall in love, and have kids? That is Taylor and Kelsey Phinney’s story—at least part of it.
This episode is sponsored by the Davis Phinney Foundation, a non-profit with the mission to help people with Parkinson's live well with the disease.
Visit dpf.org/donate
With guests Kelsey and Taylor Phinney
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Kendall Gretsch entered her very first Paralympics race in the 6km biathlon at the 2018 Paralympic Winter Games... and won.
Fast forward to the Triathlon at the 2020 Summer Paralympics. Kendall Gretsch is faced with a daunting task, making up her 4 minute and 8 second factored time. In a thrilling finish, she sprints past Lauren Parker to become a summer AND winter Paralympic Champion.
Video of that finish here: https://youtu.be/uwB75wE1V3w
With guest Kendall Gretsch
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
This episode of Threshold is sponsored by Fischer. Learn more about the new Fischer Speedmax Helium system at fischersports.com
Some people don’t need an introduction. And some don’t even need a full name.
Their shadow is cast so large over their influence–their contribution so transformative—that you need only refer to them by their first name.
Especially with a name like Kikkan.
With guest Kikkan Randall
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
This episode of Threshold is sponsored by Fischer. Learn more about the Fischer Speedmax Helium system at fischersports.com
Just as American skiing started to appear at the top of the sport, when Jessie Diggins grew the US Olympic medal haul by 100% in Beijing, and Rosie Brennan unceremoniously threw down the second-best top-to-bottom women’s Olympic performance in history, at the very same games–naturally a somewhat esoteric statistic like the first Mother-daughter Olympic duo in US cross country skiing might occur at the same time.
Today, on Threshold, we cover that story with the duo themselves, Novie and Laura McCabe.
With guests Novie and Laura McCabe
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Birkie week is upon us. Who better to talk to then 2-time Champion, Alayna Sonnesyn about becoming the youngest female Birkie winner in history.
With guest Alayna Sonnesyn
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
This is your LAST CHANCE to win a FREE pair of Salomon S/MAX eSKIN skis, made from recycled plastic bottles. To enter the giveaway, FOLLOW Threshold on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, AND comment on Threshold with Chad Salmela's post on FACEBOOK. Each comment counts as an entry!
On this day 20 years ago, Andrea Burke (neé Henkel) won Gold at the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympics in an event that her coaches recommended she didn’t compete in. This marked the first of many medals at Soldier Hollow in what was considered a smashing success for the country of Germany who won the medal count at those Olympics.
Today, Andrea recalls her childhood during the reunification of Germany, that Gold medal, and her dramatic finish that led to an overall World Cup title.
With Guest Andrea Henkel Burke
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Thanks again to today's special sponsor: SALOMON, for providing a pair of Salomon S/MAX eSKIN skis that YOU could win!
Learn more about the work Andrea does today: https://www.andrea-burke.com/
Win a FREE pair of Salomon S/MAX eSKIN skis, made from recycled plastic bottles. To enter the giveaway, FOLLOW Threshold on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, AND comment on Threshold with Chad Salmela's post on FACEBOOK. Each comment counts as an entry!
After surviving being hit by a car, Hannah Halvorsen overcomes immense odds to earn a spot on the 2022 US Olympic Team.
with Guest Hannah Halvorsen
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Thanks again to today's special sponsor: SALOMON, for providing a pair of Salomon S/MAX eSKIN skis that YOU could win!
Win a FREE pair of Salomon S/MAX eSKIN skis, made from recycled plastic bottles. To enter the giveaway, FOLLOW Threshold on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, AND comment on Threshold with Chad Salmela's post on FACEBOOK.
Rosie Brennan has entered 7 World Cup events during the 2021-2022 season and has finished no worse than 8th, including a podium finish in Davos. This clearly sets her up for an exciting Olympic run. Today on Threshold, we talk with Rosie about the long journey that has brought her here and how she feels about the upcoming Olympics. In a 'Here-Comes-Diggins' media onslaught, meet America’s medal hopeful, just inches out of the limelight... for now.
with Guest Rosie Brennan
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Thanks again to today's special sponsor: SALOMON, for providing a pair of Salomon S/MAX eSKIN skis that YOU could win!
Threshold sits down with double Junior World Champion and the youngest winner of the American Birkebeiner, Johnny Steel Hagenbuch. We get into the environment and circumstances of Hagenbuch’s development, his part in the young group of American men who shined like no Americans before at the junior level, his college plans, his long-range skiing aspirations, and of course, winning the Birkie at age 19.
This episode of Threshold is sponsored by SALOMON. Recognizing that the future existence of skiing is directly impacted by climate change, Salomon is confirming that sustainability will be a major aspect of its performance parameters in future winter sports products.
The first of those sustainable products is the new S/MAX eSKIN Nordic ski, the company’s first ski constructed with a sustainable mindset, with its core constructed with recycled plastic bottles.
For more information on Salomon’s focus on sustainability, and all their great products... Visit salomon.com
with Guest Johnny Steel Hagenbuch
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Olympian Holly Brooks reached the highest level of ski racing, despite, if not in spite of, her circuitous, uncommon route. We put some Holly into your Holidays with Holly Brooks, from her home in Anchorage.
This episode of Threshold is sponsored by SALOMON. Recognizing that the future existence of skiing is directly impacted by climate change, Salomon is confirming that sustainability will be a major aspect of its performance parameters in future winter sports products.
The first of those sustainable products is the new S/MAX eSKIN Nordic ski, the company’s first ski constructed with a sustainable mindset, with its core constructed with recycled plastic bottles.
For more information on Salomon’s focus on sustainability, and all their great products... Visit salomon.com
with Guest Holly Brooks
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
In 2019 and 2020, team USA won the Men's 4x5km Relay at the Nordic Skiing World Junior Championships for the first and second time ever. Now, those same men, who were all born in the year 2000 occupy half of the US Men's Nordic Ski Team. Not only that, but this season they have quietly been making names for themselves on the World Cup scene.
Today on Threshold we talk with these five guys - the Chill Pack - from Davos, Switzerland while they prepare for their next World Cup races.
This episode of Threshold is sponsored by SALOMON. Recognizing that the future existence of skiing is directly impacted by climate change, Salomon is confirming that sustainability will be a major aspect of its performance parameters in future winter sports products.
The first of those sustainable products is the new S/MAX eSKIN Nordic ski, the company’s first ski constructed with a sustainable mindset, with its core constructed with recycled plastic bottles.
For more information on Salomon’s focus on sustainability, and all their great products... Visit salomon.com
With guests Gus Schumacher, JC Schoonmaker, Ben Ogden, Lake Jager, and Hunter Wonders
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
This episode of Threshold is sponsored by Salomon. Recognizing that the future existence of skiing is directly impacted by climate change, Salomon is confirming that sustainability will be a major aspect of its performance parameters in future winter sports products.
The first of those sustainable products is the new S/MAX eSKIN Nordic ski, the company’s first ski constructed with a sustainable mindset, with its core constructed with recycled plastic bottles. For more information on Salomon’s focus on sustainability, and all their great products, Visit Salomon.com
Today, Threshold welcomes Kevin Bolger and Maja Dahlqvist, the FIS Cross Country World Cup’s most thrilling international ski racing couple.
We join them on the eve of World Cup stop #2 in Lillehammer, as Bolger sharpens up to qualify for his first Olympic Team and Dahlqvist asserts herself atop the world women’s sprinting order.
We look deeper too—what it takes to pull off the kind of relationship they have, how it affects them as athletes, and what they bring to each other’s lives.
With guests Maja Dahlqvist and Kevin Bolger
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
This time of year, nearly every year, vaunted biathlon coach, Wolfgang Pichler's long shadow gets cast over the biathlon world.
The IBU Biathlon World Cup started last weekend in Oestersund, Sweden, and continues this Thursday through Sunday.
Sweden has emerged as one of the strongest biathlon nations though it has not enjoyed wide popularity nor big funding. It has been a perennial underdog to neighboring Norway, Germany, and Russia.
Now semi-retired as a sports programming gun for hire, Threshold talks with Pichler from his home in Ruhpolding, Germany, digging to the heart of a man who inspired several generations of athletes to medals, and meaning, in the sport of biathlon.
With Guest Wolfgang Pichler
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
With guests Rick Kapala and Reid Lutter
Featuring Jessie Diggins, Gus Schumacher, Kikkan Randall, Rosie Brennan, Sophie Caldwell, Hannah Halvorsen, and Matt Whitcomb
https://nationalnordicfoundation.org/drive-for-25/
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Olympian, marathoner, mother, podcast host, TV commentator, and Dr. Pepper pounding superstar Carrie Tollefson joins Threshold to talk about her Olympic history as well as hype us up for the NYC marathon.
With guest Carrie Tollefson
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
It’s cross country running season on a ski-heavy endurance podcast. There's no better time and no better guest for Threshold right now than Ben True.
In college, Ben was a three sport All-American in cross country, skiing, and track and field. After having some confusion as to what sport to pursue, he landed as a runner... a runner with a clear Olympic trajectory. However, after three Olympic Trials that rendered several 4th place results, Ben reflects on what the Olympics truly are.
Ben will toe the line in his first marathon this year at the New York City marathon. We caught up with Ben, the sponsor-less runner with a sad, yet even more inspiring story.
With guest Ben True
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Motocross to those clueless about the sport, might see it as a fairly sedentary group of people, swilling beer, sitting in lawn chairs, eating BBQ, flipping off the camera--not training their asses off.
Sure enough, these guys are training their asses off and John Wessling is the man behind their plans. In fact, he's used many of his ski experiences to develop Motocross racers, and his success is apparent.
With guest John Wessling
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
You know it, you love it, it gives you goosebumps every time you watch it... Jessie and Kikkan's first ever women's cross country skiing Olympic gold medal was made that much more special by the infamous "HERE COMES DIGGINS" call. But did it help bring American skiing more into the mainstream? And what does the future look like for the broadcasting of American endurance sports as a whole?
We talk with NBC producer Michael Shames and play-by-play commentator Steve Schlanger, both who played integral roles in the call of that infamous Olympic moment.
With guests Steve Schlanger and Michael Shames
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Dr. Stephen Seiler is known for many things in the endurance sport world: His Ted Talk on "How 'normal people' Train like the World's Best," his countless books and articles, his introduction of polarized training, and the staggering Norwegian medal count... just to name a few.
Today, however, we get into the person Dr. Stephen Seiler, his perspective on technology in the endurance world and the culture that impacts sport.
with Guest Dr. Stephen Seiler
Host Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
The beer-swilling, Coca-Cola-drinking, taco and McDonald’s cheeseburger-eating women stars of ultramarathons that are beating men at the same distance: Courtney Dauwalter and Brittany Peterson.
As The Western States 100 Mile is around the corner, we talk with previous champion, Courtney Dauwalter, and previous runner-up, Brittany Peterson, about what makes an ultramarathoner tick.
with Guests Courtney Dauwalter and Brittany Peterson
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
In the fall of 2020, the University of Minnesota announced that it would be cutting four athletic programs. Perhaps the most prestigious of these programs to be discontinued was Men's Track and Field.
This decision hit particularly close to home for the Hoeft Family. Carson Hoeft, who was an NCAA All-American for the Gophers, and Joelle Hoeft, who is a runner herself and now expert activist for cut programs, are the parents of two standout athletes on the indoor and outdoor track and field teams, Eli and Owen Hoeft.
https://www.savecollegesports.com/
https://regents.umn.edu/regents
Guest: Owen, Eli, Joelle and Carson Hoeft
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Behind every star athlete is a star coach. In this two part series, we ask the same questions to two star coaches. Jessie Diggins' coach, Jason Cork, and Frida Karlsson's coach Per Nilsson.
with Guest Per Nilsson
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Behind every star athlete is a star coach. In this two part series, we ask the same questions to two star coaches. Jessie Diggins' coach, Jason Cork, and Frida Karlsson's coach Per Nilsson.
with Guest Jason Cork
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Entering the final stretch of the Men's 50km at the 2021 Cross Country Ski World Championships, Johannes Klaebo of Norway took a wide tangent to overtake Alexander Bolshunov of Russia. The only problem, Bolshunov didn't leave him any room.
This left Klaebo with a disqualification and Bolshunov with a broken pole to get passed down the homestretch for 2nd (after the DQ).
The FIS decision to disqualify Klaebo has been a divisive topic in the nordic ski community, to say the least. So we talk with two experts, American skier Simi Hamilton and FIS Technical Delegate Allan Serrano, about today's skiing regulations.
With guests Simi Hamilton and Allan Serrano
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
Knut Nystad, the former head of the Norwegian Wax Team, discusses the strange wax conditions at the Cross Country Ski World Championships in Oberstdorf, Germany, and the effects a fluorocarbon ban would have on the future of ski racing.
Fluorocarbon ban conversation starts at 19:30.
Guest Knut Nystad, featured in this NYT article: https://www.nytimes.com/2018/02/14/sports/olympics/cross-country-norway-wax-tech.html
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Produced by Chris Parr
On the verge of the 2021 FIS Nordic Ski World Championships in Oberstdorf, Germany, we explore the ascent of the US Cross Country Ski Team through the voice of Head Coach Matt Whitcomb.
With excerpts from Sophie Caldwell, Simi Hamilton, Sverre Caldwell and Liz Stephen.
Hosted by Chad Salmela
With Guest Matt Whitcomb
Produced by Chris Parr
It was in Lillehammer in 1996 when the International Biathlon Union (IBU) attempted a new racing format: the Pursuit. The men's race ended in a four-way sprint finish for the victory--perhaps the most thrilling finish in the history of the sport to that time. Eurovision executives ink a four-year TV-rights deal with the International Biathlon Union. The modern biathlon world cup was born.
That popularity brought with it money, and with money brought corruption. A recent report exposed that the former IBU President, Anders Besseberg "accepted gifts from Russians — including cash, hunting trips and the services of prostitutes — and then publicly defended the country, its athletes and its interests."
Our guest, IBU Executive Board Member, Max Cobb, talks about that game-changing race in Lillehammer, the current state of corruption and doping in international sport, and a preview of the 2021 Biathlon World Championships in Pokljuka, Slovenia.
The full New York Times Anders Besseberg disclosure: https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2021/01/28/us/biathlon-report-russia-besseberg.html
Hajo Seppelt, ARD German TV investigative journalist: https://vimeo.com/249176658?fbclid=IwAR3iNwecCpRnBqAD5N0EYxC_SW7HTtPjlzkwsgEkjM3AiWPaQ9keiJB-X5Q
Hosted by Chad Salmela
Guest Max Cobb
Produced by Chris Parr
Music by Taavesi