New England Ski Journal’s Basecamp: Recent Episodes
Seamans Media
Eric Wilbur and Mike Specian bring the high country to life with their authoritative coverage of the New England ski scene. News, gear, tips, analysis and more from across the active ski industry.
Mike and Keith dive into the excitement of the coming ski season with discussions on early snowfall, mountain energy, and resort activities. They welcome Brian and Tyler Fairbank from the Fairbank Group, owners of Jiminy Peak, Bromley Mountain, and Cranmore Mountain. The Fairbanks discuss the unique features and family-oriented experiences offered by their resorts, their environmental initiatives such as wind and solar power, and the future of the independent ski industry. They also highlight the importance of growing the ski industry through initiatives like Kids Rule programs and maintaining high-quality facilities and guest experiences.
Topics
00:27 Hosts' Excitement for the Ski Season
00:56 Energy and Activities at the Resorts
03:35 Upcoming Ski Events and Shows
03:56 Spotlight on the Berkshires
07:07 Interview with the Fairbank Group
08:23 Skiing Culture and Family Business
15:08 Sustainability Efforts at Jiminy Peak
22:12 Marketing Strategies for the Resorts
24:18 Skiing Experience at Jiminy Peak
26:00 Snowmaking and Family Focus
26:24 Kids Rule Program
28:26 Northeast Skiing Experience
29:37 Enhancing Lives Through Skiing
30:46 Bromley Mountain's Unique Charm
33:05 Cranmore Mountain Developments
36:32 Year-Round Operations and Future Growth
39:19 Industry Recognition and Future Outlook
44:20 Podcast Wrap-Up and Reflections
Mike and Keith record live from the Country Ski and Sport Expo in Hanover MA. They catch up with various ski resort representatives to discuss the upcoming ski season, highlighting special events, new developments, and exclusive deals available at the expo. Guests include Jay Stenson from Country Ski & Sport; and representatives from Saddleback, Maine; Smuggler's Notch, Sugarbush; Gunstock Mountain Resort; Waterville Valley; Loon Mountain; and Cannon Mountain, each sharing their unique updates and promotions. The episode is filled with enthusiasm for the winter season and invaluable information for ski enthusiasts gearing up for their favorite sport.
The Expo:
Veterans Day Weekend, November 7-10, 2024
Thursday, November 7th: 11:00 am - 8:00 pm
Friday, November 8th: 11:00 am - 8:00 pm
Saturday, November 9th: 11:00 am - 8:00 pm
Sunday, November 10th: 11:00 am - 5:00 pm
389 Columbia Rd. (Route 53)
Hanover, MA 02339
https://www.countryski.com/
Topics
00:41 Interview with Jay Stenson from Country Ski and Sport
06:23 Saddleback, Maine: A Rising Star in the East
11:46 Smuggler's Notch: The Family Mountain
16:40 Sugarbush: Exciting Upgrades and Community Engagement
19:53 Snowfall at Sugarbush
20:42 Exclusive Deals at Sugarbush
22:02 Gunstock Mountain Resort Updates
25:41 Waterville Valley Highlights
29:34 Loon Mountain Excitement
32:35 Cannon Mountain's Big Plans
37:30 Wrap-Up and Final Thoughts
In this episode of the New England Ski Journal Base Camp Podcast, Mike and Keith discuss a variety of skiing topics and delve into the importance of affordable skiing options. They highlight the early season snowfalls in New England and discuss the significance of early snowmaking operations. The hosts engage with guest John Siewierski, founder of the Mountain Sports Club, who explains the services his club offers to make skiing more affordable, including discounts on lift tickets, lodging, and equipment rentals. John shares his extensive experience in the ski industry, the impact of mega passes and COVID-19 on skiing habits, and the growing significance of cross-country and backcountry skiing. The episode also touches on the challenges and opportunities for the ski industry, emphasizing the importance of accessibility and affordability for new and returning skiers. The podcast wraps up with a discussion on Killington's operations and future, emphasizing the need for transparency and community engagement in the ski industry.
Topics
01:01 Early October Snowfall and Skiing Excitement
03:40 Ski Ward's Early Opening and Deals Discussion
08:59 Introducing John Siewierski of Mountain Sports Club
09:56 Exploring Mountain Sports Club's Offerings
21:21 Ski Pass Usage and Market Trends
23:15 Challenges in the Ski Industry
24:36 Reviving Interest in Skiing
26:21 Skiing Demographics and Financial Barriers
32:41 Exploring Alternative Winter Sports
35:01 Mountain Sports Club Membership
36:02 The Future of Ski Resorts
40:04 Killington's Impact on New England Skiing
46:00 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes
In this episode of New England Ski Journal's Base Camp podcast, hosts Mike and Keith discuss the exciting transition of Killington Resort's ownership to independence, led by local investors Phil Gross and Michael Ferry. With the new CEO Mike Solimano on board, the conversation dives into the operational and financial strategies of running a major ski resort, emphasizing the shift from strict financial management to a community-focused approach. Key topics include the importance of local ownership, the impact on community engagement, insights on infrastructure upgrades, and innovative developments like the installation of a six-pack lift and a new village partnership with Great Gulf. The episode wraps up with reflections on the benefits of independence, the resort's contributions to the New England ski scene, and future plans to enhance the skiing experience at Killington.
Topics
00:34 Hosts' Excitement for Ski Season
01:04 Natural Snow vs. Snow Guns
04:28 Unexpected Changes in the Ski Industry
05:25 Killington's New Independence
08:06 Interview with Mike Solimano
09:43 Killington's Future Plans
24:45 Spring Skiing Challenges and Lift Logistics
25:30 World Cup and Community Engagement
29:25 Future Plans for Killington Resort
31:18 The New Village Development
35:01 Impact on Icon Pass and Ski Industry Trends
37:22 Killington's Independence and Future Outlook
41:57 Conclusion and Reflections
This episode of the New England Ski Journal Base Camp Podcast, Mike and Keith explore the anticipation for the upcoming ski season and recent announcements from the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame. They discuss the induction of impactful figures like Sarah Bill Meyer, Hannah Kearney, and Chuck and Jan Perkins. The episode features an interview with Rex and Karen Rex Deitesfeld, founders of Zay Boots, who share their journey of developing an innovative, American-made ski boot with a unique radial closure system offering dynamic foot stability and comfort during turns. This episode delves into the technical aspects of ski boot manufacturing, including the challenges of creating a boot suitable for various skill levels and the importance of made-in-America production.
Topics
00:22 Signs of the Upcoming Ski Season
00:52 U.S. Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame Inductees
03:16 The Importance of Ski Boots
04:06 The Legacy of Hanson Boots
06:36 Challenges in Ski Boot Manufacturing
08:51 Introducing Zay Ski Boots
10:25 Interview with Zay Ski Boots Founders
17:36 The Radial Closure System Explained
22:13 Comparing Zay Boots to Other Ski Boots
24:46 The Zay Ski Boot Advantage
25:24 Target Audience for Zay Boots
26:30 Innovative Boot Design and Feedback
29:03 Fit and Volume Considerations
31:06 Boot Board and Flex Technology
33:41 Material Choices and Manufacturing
40:16 Liner Design and Comfort
43:10 Market Distribution and Pricing
45:34 Conclusion and Future Prospects
47:20 Post-Interview Reflections
The guest is renowned meteorologist Tim Kelley. The episode delves into the unique weather dynamics of New England, from early snowfall and weather streaks through fall to the intricacies of the Jay Peak snow machine. Tim, known for his expertise since leaving television, shares insights on past and upcoming winter conditions, the impacts of global phenomena like the Hunga Tonga eruption, and the advancements in meteorological modeling. Kelley also provides a forecast for the upcoming winter, expressing optimism despite climate variability, and touches upon personal anecdotes from his lifelong passion for weather and skiing. Expect an in-depth discussion filled with enthusiasm, expertise, and a love for New England's dynamic weather challenges.
Topics
00:40 Hosts' Weather Chat
03:43 Ski Area Preparations and Wildfires
05:45 Introducing Tim Kelley
07:12 Tim Kelly's Weather Insights
14:16 Jay Peak Weather Phenomenon
18:52 Global Warming and Snow Trends
24:49 Changes in Weather Forecasting
26:30 Model Forecasting Challenges
27:32 Television Career Reflections
28:35 Weather Reporting Evolution
33:33 YouTube Forecasting and Models
35:49 Winter Predictions and Farmer's Almanac
41:04 New England's Unique Weather
42:10 Excitement for the Upcoming Season
45:13 Podcast Conclusion and Optimism
In this episode of the New England Ski Journal Base Camp Podcast, hosts Mike Specian and Keith Pearson dive into the world of winter sports history with Justin Koski, Executive Director of the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame. The episode covers the Hall of Fame's mission to honor and preserve the legacies of influential athletes and sport builders in skiing and snowboarding. Koski discusses the selection process for inductees, the history and significance of the Hall located in Ishpeming, Michigan, and upcoming events, including the 2024 induction ceremony in Lake Placid. The conversation also touches on the importance of preserving the sport's heritage for future generations.
Topics
00:21 Reflecting on Past Winters and Hopes for Consistency
02:46 Nostalgia for Ski Magazines and Early Signs of Winter
05:21 Predicting the First Ski Resort to Open
07:11 Exploring the UP of Michigan and Its Ski Culture
08:26 Introduction to the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame
10:14 Interview with Justin Koski, Executive Director of the Hall of Fame
21:13 Introduction to the Hall of Fame Induction Process
22:23 Criteria for Induction into the Hall of Fame
23:57 Upcoming Induction Events and Locations
26:14 The Selection Process Explained
27:28 Nomination and Voting Details
29:49 Heritage Category and Induction Caps
31:57 Sneak Peek at the 2024 Ballot
36:49 How to Get Involved and Support the Hall of Fame
38:33 Closing Remarks and Reflections
In this episode of the New England Ski Journal Base Camp Podcast, hosts Mike Specian and Keith Pearson welcome Peter Daley Sr. and Peter Daley Jr. from Northland Skis. They delve into the rich history of Northland, its resurrection, and the unique design and performance features of the skis. The discussion highlights the ski's historic connection to the 10th Mountain Division, the Dartmouth Outing Club, and modern innovations. The episode also includes personal anecdotes and insights on the broader ski industry, making it a must-listen for ski enthusiasts seeking both nostalgia and cutting-edge performance.
Topics
00:25 Introducing the New Co-Host: Keith Pearson
01:26 Sponsorship News and Future Plans
02:53 The Importance of Ski History
04:23 Northland: An Iconic Ski Brand
06:30 Interview with Northland Skis' Peter Daley Sr. and Jr.
08:04 Resurrecting the Northland Brand
11:30 The History and Heritage of Northland Skis
17:34 Innovations and Manufacturing of Northland Skis
23:29 The Evolution of Ski Design
24:27 Personal Skiing Experiences
25:58 The Versatility of Northland Skis
27:40 Ski Industry Skepticism and Acceptance
27:54 Future Goals for Northland Skis
29:16 Customer Reactions to Northland Skis
35:24 The Science Behind Ski Efficiency
41:02 The Heritage and Future of Northland Skis
41:53 Podcast Wrap-Up and Final Thoughts
In this episode of the New England Ski Journal Base Camp podcast, Mike and Chip delve into the world of skiing with a focus on Portillo, Chile. The discussion covers the unique skiing conditions, the culture, and the family-friendly amenities of this iconic resort. They highlight the current exceptional snow conditions in Portillo, discuss the logistical ease of traveling there, and explore the various activities and dining experiences available. This episode provides a comprehensive overview of why Portillo should be on every skier's bucket list, especially during the Southern Hemisphere's winter season.
Topics
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
00:32 Reflecting on Past Episodes and Co-Hosts
01:02 Discussing Skiing and Outdoor Activities
01:51 Weather Patterns and Snow Predictions
04:22 Southern Hemisphere Skiing Highlights
08:18 Interview with Portillo Chili Representatives
12:27 Portillo Chili: Resort Details and Experience
24:35 Snow Conditions and Elevation in New England
25:05 Unique Snow Characteristics of Chile
26:17 Diverse Skiing Experiences in Chile
27:18 Family Ski Vacation in Portillo
30:09 Food and Drink at Portillo
32:36 Traveling to Chile: Tips and Logistics
38:09 Heli-Skiing and Sightseeing in the Andes
40:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In this episode of the New England Ski Journal Base Camp Podcast, hosts Mike and Chip dive into the unique experience of skiing during summer at Big Snow American Dream in the Meadowlands, New Jersey. They are joined by Hugh Reynolds, Marketing and Sales Director at Big Snow, who elaborates on the distinct nature of this indoor ski facility. The discussion encompasses the novelty of year-round real snow skiing, the extensive array of programs and lessons offered, and the facility's commitment to increasing accessibility and diversity within the sport. Hugh also highlights the importance of removing barriers to entry and Big Snow's future expansion plans. The episode emphasizes the sheer joy and inclusivity that Big Snow brings to the skiing community.
Topics
00:00 Welcome to the New England Ski Journal Base Camp Podcast
00:33 The Joy of Skiing in Unusual Places
02:00 Dreaming of Consistent Snow
03:38 Exploring Big Snow in the Meadowlands
07:00 Interview with Hugh Reynolds from Big Snow
07:49 The Unique Experience of Indoor Skiing
13:44 Big Snow's Impact and Community Programs
23:27 Innovative Snow Cooling System
23:53 Expanding to New Markets
24:25 Personal Skiing Experiences
26:32 Maintaining Snow Quality
30:04 Terrain Based Learning
32:56 Community Programs and Outreach
34:51 Media Perception and Celebrity Visits
38:39 Accessibility and Inclusivity in Skiing
41:04 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans
48:08 Final Remarks and Next Episode Preview
The guest is Tait Wardlaw, the new VP of Sales, Marketing, and Communications for the Olympic Regional Development Authority, discussing Lake Placid's unique blend of summer and winter sports, including skiing, bobsledding, and mountain biking. They reminisce about the 1980 Winter Olympics, explore the region's culinary and cultural scene, and highlight the importance of sustainability and community in maintaining Lake Placid's status as a premier destination for athletes and tourists alike.
Topics
00:56 Summer Vibes and Lake Placid Adventures
02:17 The Olympic Legacy of Lake Placid
03:06 Memories of the Miracle on Ice
05:26 Exploring the Adirondacks and Nearby Attractions
07:06 Introducing Tait Wardlaw
10:19 The Mission of the Olympic Regional Development Authority
17:50 Lake Placid: A Year-Round Destination
21:27 Exciting Mountain Biking Events
22:14 Comparing the Adirondacks and the White Mountains
24:03 Lake Placid's Winter Sports Scene
25:32 The Nordic World Cup and Local Athletes
28:22 Exploring Downtown Lake Placid
35:09 Raising a Family in Lake Placid
36:56 Upcoming Summer Events in Lake Placid
39:35 Reflecting on Lake Placid's Appeal
40:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In this episode of the New England Ski Journal Base Camp Podcast, Mike and Chip discuss the unique offerings of Utah's ski resorts and natural attractions during both summer and winter with Alison Palmintere of Ski Utah. The conversation covers the exceptional snow conditions Utah experienced last winter, the state’s breathtaking summer activities, and its unparalleled accessibility to outdoor adventure. Moreover, Alison provides insights into Ski Utah's initiatives, including the SkiUtah Interconnect Tour and membership benefits. Listeners also get previews of upcoming enhancements at Utah’s resorts, making it a must-listen for those planning their next ski or summer trip.
Topics
00:24 Celebrating Boston Sports
01:27 Summer in Utah: A Hidden Gem
05:40 Interview with Alison from Ski Utah
07:29 Utah's Winter Wonderland
09:18 Utah's Summer Adventures
21:05 Accessibility and Family-Friendly Activities
25:53 Exploring Utah's National Parks in Winter
28:38 Sundance Resort: A Hidden Gem
31:28 Salt Lake City: A Cultural Evolution
36:16 Winter Preparations and Ski Resort Innovations
38:27 SkiUtah Interconnect Tour: A Unique Experience
40:47 Multi-Resort Passes and Accessibility
42:45 Conclusion and Future Plans
Mike and Chip discuss the transition from winter to summer activities in New England, focusing on the effects of changing weather and their personal engagements in surfboarding, windsurfing, and biking. They emphasize the uniqueness of Vermont, particularly praising Killington Resort for its extensive mountain biking trails, including the beginner-friendly Snowshed area and the more advanced Ramshead and Gondola trails. Special guest Taylor Zink, newly promoted to Terrain Park Manager at Killington, shares insights into the resort's operations, including snowmaking, trail maintenance, bike rentals, and lessons. He highlights Killington's rich biking history, starting in 1991, and how the resort continuously improves its facilities. Taylor also mentions the Beast 365 Pass, which provides year-round access to various activities, and outlines upcoming events such as the Eastern States Cup and the U.S. Open. In addition to biking, Killington offers diverse recreational options like golf, archery, and outdoor music events, ensuring there's something for everyone throughout the year.
Topics
00:22 Weather and Seasonal Changes
01:35 Outdoor Activities and Local Events
03:53 Exploring Vermont's Unique Charm
04:56 Mountain Biking at Killington
08:04 Interview with Taylor Zink
25:15 Wood Screws and Bridge Maintenance
25:30 Meet Colin: The Feature Fabricator
26:31 Training and Certification for Instructors
29:11 Events and Activities at Killington
31:43 Dining and Apres-Ski Options
34:04 Exploring Local Trails and Uphill Routes
37:53 Family Activities and Adventure Center
40:17 E-Bikes and Uphill Climbing
41:15 Reflections on the Ski Industry
43:19 Conclusion and Farewell
A lively discussion about the outdoor recreational opportunities in Colorado, with a special focus on its summer activities. The guest is Sarah Beatty, Director of Communications for Colorado Ski Country USA, who elaborates on various summer activities offered by Colorado resorts, including mountain biking, fly fishing, rafting, and numerous events. The episode is filled with personal anecdotes and tips for exploring Colorado's renowned natural beauty.
00:34 Meet Chip Cook: The True Ski Bum
02:13 The Colorado Lifestyle: Skiing and Beyond
04:01 Summer Adventures in Colorado
07:56 Exploring Colorado's Culinary Delights
10:00 Introducing Sarah Beatty from Colorado Ski Country USA
25:42 Exploring Glenwood Springs and Grand Junction
26:46 Buena Vista and Salida: Heart of Colorado
28:30 Leadville: A Hidden Gem
30:57 Aspen: Festivals and Scenic Rides
32:16 Steamboat Springs: Rodeos and Fly Fishing
39:33 Denver and the Front Range
46:37 Conclusion: The Allure of Colorado
The guests are Mark Hayes, owner and president of Highland Mountain Bike Park, and Kevin Owens, the manager of summer camps and riding programs at the park. They share the park's mission, education programs, and vision for promoting outdoor recreation. The episode emphasizes the importance of progression in the sport, the impact of instruction and coaching, and the role of community parks in growing mountain biking as a family-friendly activity. It also touches on the future of outdoor recreation and development strategies to make adventure sports like mountain biking more accessible to varied demographics.
01:25 Diving Into the World of Mountain Biking
02:21 Exploring the Evolution of Mountain Biking Equipment
03:27 Spotlight on New England's Highland Mountain Bike Park
04:26 The Transformation of Highland into a Mountain Biking Haven
07:05 Mark Hayes's Journey from Tech to Trails
13:34 The Evolution of Mountain Biking and Highland's Role
17:54 The Growing Popularity of Mountain Biking
21:23 Highland Mountain Bike Park: A Biker's Paradise
23:30 Discovering Highland's Programs for All Ages
23:50 Introducing 'Find Your Ride' and Other Beginner Programs
26:10 Expanding the Conversation: Women and Youth in Mountain Biking
27:06 Building Out Cross Country Trails and Community Partnerships
30:59 Equipment Rentals and Evolution of Mountain Biking Gear
33:15 The Impact of Hosting Big Events and Community Engagement
35:57 Unique Transformation: From Ski Area to Bike Park
37:53 The Future of Mountain Biking and Trail Building
An interview with Mike Cherim of Redline Guiding, who talks about his journey into guiding, the range of services offered by Redline Guiding, including educational courses and personalized hiking experiences. Cherim also speaks on the importance of safety, the impact of COVID-19 on hiking habits, and shares insights into various hiking trails and experiences around the White Mountains. The episode wraps up with a discussion on trail etiquette, the responsibility of hikers to preserve natural spaces, and a reminder of the true essence of hiking being in the journey rather than the destination.
Topics:
00:46 Skiing in Shorts and Summer Vibes
01:21 Birdwatching and Backyard Nature
02:00 Hiking Adventures and Favorite Trails
03:05 Exploring Mount Monadnock: A Hiking Gem
07:06 Diving into the World of Hiking Guides
08:07 Meet Mike Cherim: From Life Change to Guiding in the Whites
11:20 The Impact of COVID on Hiking and Trail Etiquette
20:57 Making Hiking Safer and More Accessible with Redline Guiding
24:51 Trekking Tales: A 21-Day Adventure
25:26 Disconnecting to Reconnect: The Journey of Self-Sufficiency
26:26 Wilderness First Aid: Partnering with SOLO
27:45 Beyond First Aid: Expanding Wilderness Education
28:26 Seasonal Skills: From River Crossings to Ice Climbing
30:06 The Art of Navigation: Embracing Traditional Skills
33:18 Search and Rescue: A Community of Lifesavers
35:41 Unique Weddings: Marrying Passion with Profession
38:45 Reflections and Recommendations: Favorite Hikes and Safety Tips
46:39 Closing Thoughts: The Importance of the Journey
The guest is 'Best Backcountry Skiing in the Northeast' author David Goodman. His first guidebook became a cult classic among Eastern powder seekers and garnered two national awards. It is considered the only comprehensive guide to the best backcountry ski and snowboard tours in New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, New York and Massachusetts.
More on David's writings and podcast at https://www.dgoodman.net/
Henry Schniewind is a Massachusetts native who went on to become an internationally renowned snow and avalanche expert. He studied avalanche forecasting at Montana State University and Boston University. Following this, he moved to the French Alps where he works as an off-piste ski guide. He's the director of Henry’s Avalanche Talk and a conference speaker on risk management.
More at https://henrysavalanchetalk.com/
Donna L. Weinbrecht won the first gold medal awarded in the first Olympic mogul competitions in freestyle skiing in 1992. She was also World Champion in 1991 and a five-time World Cup moguls season champion (1990–92, 1994, and 1996).
Ben White, a Massachusetts-born skier who as a teenager completed the rare achievement of skiing down all 48 of New Hampshire's 4,000-foot peaks, joins us. He is now the founder and CEO of White Cloud Concierge.
Bryan Van Dorpe has been the Executive Director of Youth Enrichment Services (YES) since 2008. Prior to joining YES, Bryan was the Executive Director at the South Boston Neighborhood House. He joins the show to talk about bringing skiing to kids who would otherwise not have access to the sport.
Former 'Outside' magazine editor Gordy Megroz has written the 'ultimate skier and snowboarder bucket list,' from runs in Utah, to Switzerland, with experiences for all levels.
Ry Young, Marketing and Events Manager at Mad River Glen in Vermont, joins the show to talk about the resort's 75th anniversary.
New England Ski Museum Executive Director Tim Whiton joins the show to talk about his role as the steward of ski history in the northeast.
Stowe Ski Patrol Director Craig Fisher and longtime patroller and Stowe historian Brian Lindner join the show to discuss the patrol's 90th anniversary.
The guest is Skiing Hall of Famer Kristen Ulmer, who grew up in Henniker, New Hampshire, went on to an extreme skiing career, and now is an expert in discussing fear.
The topic is the 2024 Freestyle World Cup at Waterville Valley and the guests are skiing legends Wayne Wong and Ken Tofferi.
The guest is Powder Ridge Owner Sean Hayes, who discusses the challenges of running a ski resort in Southern Connecticut.
Owner Steven Kelly and General Manager Dan Egan join the show to talk about the exciting revival of Tenney Mountain Resort.
Vance Perry and Owen Anketel of NE Disabled Sports join the show to talk about the many options for skiing for those who are physically challenged.
The guest is Craig Clemmer, director of sales and marketing up and resident historian for Bretton Woods.
Legendary big-mountain skier Kim Reichhelm joins the show. Since starting Ski With Kim in 1989, she has been hosting clinics, camps, corporate skiing, private trips and adventure travel for all ages and abilities around the world. A pioneer in the ski industry, Kim was a member of the US Ski Team, an NCAA All American for the University of Colorado, a professional ski racer and two-time World Extreme Skiing Champion.
More at https://www.skiwithkim.com/home
Ralph DesLauriers, who is the founder of Bolton Valley in Vermont, joins the show along with Lindsay DesLauriers, president and CEO, and Eric DesLauriers, who is Mountain Operations Director at the Vermont ski area.
Kelly Brush joins the show to talk about her foundation, whose stated mission is to "inspire and empower people with spinal cord injuries to lead active and engaged lives."
More at https://kellybrushfoundation.org/
The guest is Torey Brooks of Protect Our Winters, a worldwide network of more than 130,000 supporters. POW gives a national voice to the outdoor sports community, an industry that supports 7.6 million jobs.
The guest is the great Glen Plake, a US National Ski Hall of Fame skier. He is known for his appearances in ski films such as Greg Stump's 'The Blizzard of Aahhhs.' Plake has been named a pioneer of extreme skiing in America by ESPN.
We hear from a number of those representing top ski products in a podcast recorded live at the Country Ski Expo.
The show runs Thursday, November 9th, 2023 – Sunday, November 12th, 2023 at:
389 Columbia Rd. (Route 53)
Hanover, MA 02339
More info: https://www.countryski.com/ski-expo
Ray Stenson and Ray Stenson Jr. join the show to preview the upcoming Ski & Sport Expo Veteran’s Day Weekend (11/9/23 – 11/12/23). For more info: https://www.countryski.com/ski-expo/about
The guest is Milton, Massachusetts native John Egan, a member of the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame and the Vermont Ski Hall of Fame.
Todd Jones joins the show to discuss Teton Gravity Research, the film production company he co-founded in 1995.
A chat with the director of "The Blizzard of AAHHHs," Greg Stump, and one of the film's stars Mike Hattrup.
It's a rare chance to look back on the legendary 1984 film "Hot Dog: The Movie" as the guests are Mike Marvin, writer and producer of the film; and Lynne Wieland, who played "Banana Pants" in the movie.
Kate Webber Punderson of Carrabassett Valley Academy and Claire Butler of Killington Mountain School join the show to discuss everything you need to know about ski school.
Olympian skier Doug Lewis is the guest. He grew up on the slopes of Middlebury Snow Bowl, where his mom was an instructor and then went to. Green Mountain Valley School. He's a two-time Olympian and in 1985, he won the bronze in downhill at the World Championships.
More on Doug at eliteam.com
Jess Wilson. the Appalachian Mountain Club's director of White Mountain Lodges and Camps, joins the show to talk about the history and mission of AMC.
Cape Cod Ocean Community's Heather Doyle; Drew Taylor and Marc Angelillo join the show to talk about safety on the beaches on Cape Cod.
Nathan Harvey and Lisa McCoy discuss kayaking and much more at Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center in Mount Washington.
Two New England ski brands are represented on the show today as the guests are Mark Wallace from Parlor Skis and Vic Satir from Terracea.
After a lost summer, Gunstock Mountain is back for summer activities. The guests are Gunstock General Manager Tom Day and Robin Rowe, the Resort Services Director at the mountain.
Nate Marr, Marketing Director, and, Janet Cowie, General Manager for Zoar Outdoor join the show to talk about why Zoar is Massachusetts’ premier site for white-water rafting and much more.
Bryan Rivard and Travis Bobley from Ski Vermont join the show to talk about the host of outdoor activities available at ski resorts this summer.
The guests are Lil Ide, Director of Communication and Education from Kingdom Trails and Burke Mountain Director of Resort Operations Kevin Mack, who join the show to talk about the great biking options at ski resorts in New England.
Eric and Mike recount the season that was 2022-23 and share some favorite moments from the podcast.
Les Otten of the Balsams Development Group shares his vision for the Balsams Ski Resort.
The guest is Geoff Hatheway, President of the Magic Mountain Ski Area. The mountain is “working to preserve and improve one of Vermont's last independent, throwback ski areas by focusing on what matters most: a unique on-mountain ski experience combined with a welcoming old-school ski vibe.”
The guests are Jon Hunt, Executive Director of Whaleback Mountain; and Christine Collins, Director of Parks and Recreation for Wolfeboro, NH, who oversees Abenaki Mountain.
Janet White of the International Skiing History Association joins the show to talk about what ISHA does to preserve skiing history in New England and beyond.
www.skiinghistory.org
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Ben Wilcox, the general manager of Cranmore Mountain Resort, and Becca Deschenes, the resort's director of marketing, join the show to talk about this weekend and beyond at the North Conway NH ski destination.
John DeVivo, GM Cannon Mountain and Robin Hicks longtime Cannon ambassador and creator of the Cannon Peeps Facebook page.
The guests are Burke Mountain General Manager Kevin Mack
Director of Guest Experience & Marketing Jessica Sechler.
Hosts Eric Wilbur and Mike Specian are joined by Dartmouth Skiway General Manager Mark Adamcyzk and Mike Hussey, Director of Skiing for the Middlebury Snowbowl.
The topic is the vibrant race leagues at Wachusett Mountain and the guests are Chris Stimpson, public relations manager at Wachusett, Pete Marston, the pacesetter and coach at Wachusett Mountain Race League, and Noel Lyons, a champion skiier and, according to Ski Magazine, "the Ray Bourque of skiing."
The guests are Lauren Garfield, sales and marketing manager at Whiteface Mountain Ski Resort, along with Steve Vance, director of sales at the Grand Adirondack Hotel in Lake Placid.
Tim and Katie Smith of Waterville Valley join the show to talk about why their mountain is a portrait of family friendly fun.
The guests are JJ Toland, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Sugarbush Mountain Resort and Sugarbush Director of Communications John Bleh.
Sugarloaf Mountain Resort's Marketing and Communications Director Ethan Austin and Vice President of Skier Services Tom Butler join the show to talk about the mountain's hidden gems and more.
Eric and Mike welcome a trio of staffers from Smuggler's Notch: Kelly Mohr, Director of Media Relations. Steve Clokey, Vice President of Marketing and Promotions, and Rob Aiken, Sales Director. They discuss both the family-friendly and death-defying aspects of the acclaimed mountain.
Two mountains with a rich history are highlighted as Thomas Prindle, Director of Marketing for King Pine, and Kris Blomback, GM of Pats Peak, join the show.
Jessyca Keeler from Ski New Hampshire joins the show to talk about what's new from mountain to mountain across the state. She shares many resort updates that New Hampshire skiers will want to know.
The guests are Dave Kulis, the assistant general manager at Catamount Mountain and Jon Schaefer, whose family owns both Catamount and Brookshire East.
The guest is P.J. McSparran of Saddleback Mountain. He joins the show to talk about new features of the once-dormant resort.l
Mike Solimano, V.P. and general manager of Killington Mountain Resort, joins the show to talk about an unfortunately warm fall; his favorite trail on the mountain and the stellar improvements to the resort's lodge.
Matthew Clos, the Director of Jackson Hole Mountain Sports School, joins the show to talk about why the mountain is a special place. And hosts Eric Wilbur and Mike Specian share their favorite places to ski. Please note: IKON passholders book reservations for Jackson Hole on ikonpass.com, and Mountain Collective passholders book their reservations on jacksonhole.com. If you are purchasing Lift Access, you can go on www.jacksonhole.com
Jay Peak Resort's President Steve Wright joins the show to talk about the resurrection of Jay Peak as the company emerges from receivership. Also, hosts Eric Wilbur and Mike Specian discuss the unwelcome arrival of paid parking at New England mountains -- and the fast-approaching race to be the first resort to open their slopes.
Adam DesLauriers, Director of Special Projects for Bolton Valley, joins the show to talk about the "hidden gem" in Richmond VT.
Ski season is nearing and with it comes ski shows. Ray Stenson of Country Ski & Sports joins us to talk about his company’s upcoming ski show in Hanover during November. We also look at the upcoming Boston Ski Expo later in November as skiers prepare to get back on the slopes.
Gunstock Mountain in Gilford (N.H.) has seen its share of turmoil recently. But it is coming out of a crisis among management, and it’s as great a gem as ever. Joining the podcast is Gunstock GM Tom Day to discuss what happened and what the future is of this legendary New England ski area.
In this first edition of Basecamp, Eric Wilbur and Mike Specian take us on a tour of New England’s season ski passes. They’ll tell you where to find great deals, including some hidden gems. Then they talk with Ragged Mountain GM Erik Barnes to learn about his mountain's own ski pass.