Criscitiello explores the history of climate and sea ice in polar and high-alpine regions using ice core chemistry. This involves long months of living in a tent and drilling ice cores in places like Antarctica, Greenland, the Yukon, and the Canadian high Arctic. Criscitiello's work also focuses on environmental contaminant histories in ice cores from the Canadian high Arctic and the water towers of the Canadian Rockies. 

She has earned the Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal, three American Alpine Club (AAC) climbing awards, the John Lauchlan and Mugs Stump alpine climbing awards, and the first PhD in glaciology ever conferred by MIT. 

Criscitiello and her team installed the highest weather station in North America near Mount Logan's summit in 2021, and in 2022 drilled a record-breaking 327m ice core on its summit plateau that will shed light on how climate change impacts even the world’s highest peaks. 

Most recently, in spring 2025, she drilled a new ice core on Axel Heiberg Island in the Canadian high Arctic. At 613m, this is the deepest ice core ever drilled in Canadian history, and will contain critical information about Arctic Ocean and climate variability over the Holocene.

Dr. Ali's Instagram: @alisoncriscitiello

Canadian Ice Core Lab: @ice_cicl

Girls on Ice Canada : @girlsonicecanada

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Whether she’s chasing waterfalls, exploring backcountry trails, driving ice roads, or uncovering hidden gems close to home, Lindsay believes adventure does not have to be far-flung to be meaningful. She has a deep love for local food, experiences, and accommodations, and is passionate about supporting small businesses and community-driven tourism wherever she goes.

Lindsay is also a strong advocate for learning the true history of the lands we live and travel on. She actively supports Indigenous-owned businesses and encourages travellers to engage more thoughtfully with the places they visit. Known for her colourful hair, bold tights, and infectious enthusiasm, Lindsay brings creativity, authenticity, and heart to every journey.

Her work and regional expertise are featured in the book Greenbelt Trails: The 36 Best — West of Toronto from Oakville and Hamilton to Niagara and Beyond. Find more info in her blog, Hiking the Ontario Greenbelt & Why This Area Is So Important.

Lindsay’s adventures remind us that the true heart of a destination lies in its people, its communities, and the stories we share along the way.

Lindsay's Blog

Lindsay's Instagram

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This is a region of scale: nearly 50,000 square kilometres of forests, rivers, countryside, and over 30,000 lakes. Two national parks. Dozens of regional parks. Endless space to move (or to slow down). 

In winter, it becomes a true playground for the outdoor lover. Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, fatbiking, frozen lakes, quiet trails. And no shortage of hot tubs and saunas.

Check out the places we stayed and played:

Les Boisés De La Rivière Noire

Discover our unique recreational centre nestled by the river, offering private and exclusive chalets for an unforgettable nature escape. With 15 rental units—including 7 innovative Pod chalets (3 with saunas), 3 yurts, 2 standard chalets, and 3 ready-to-camp sites—every stay comes with a private spa and, for most units, direct river access plus 2 kayaks.

Standout Features

Enjoy complimentary fresh farm eggs every morning from our on-site farm. Gather in our large communal yurt perfect for family reunions or events, and unwind at our small private beach.

Seasonal Fun

In winter, thrill seekers love our tubing slide and outdoor skating rink. Summer brings kayaking and riverside relaxation, blending comfort with authentic outdoor adventure.

Le Baluchon Éco-villégiature

Le Baluchon Éco-villégiature began in 1982 as a bold idea from seven students who wanted to create an eco-friendly destination rooted in nature and community. After years of planning and support, it officially opened in 1990 with 12 rooms and quickly gained recognition for its innovation and regional impact.

Over time, it expanded its accommodations, spa, and outdoor experiences (snowshoeing, xc skiing, hiking, dogsledding, etc.) while staying committed to sustainability. It has evolved into an internationally recognized eco-resort known for refined nature experiences and strong environmental values.

Steeve Carpentier - 2800 Du Parc

Steeve Carpentier, owner of 2800 du Parc, located right next to La Mauricie National Park.

While I was there, we hiked Lac Solitaire, an incredible trail that opens up along a ridgeline with sweeping winter views. It’s the kind of hike that reminds you how vast this region really is.

Steeve has completed 17 Ironmans, raced Ironman Mont-Tremblant, and taken on the extreme Canadaman, but what stands out most is how deeply connected he is to this place.

We went snowshoeing (Lac Solitaire) at La Mauricie National Park.

We went fatbiking at Parcs Des Chutes.

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She has written thirteen books and received many of the highest honours in mountain literature including two Boardman Tasker Prizes, the Banff Mountain Book Festival Grand Prize, Italy’s ITAS Prize, two National Outdoor Book Awards, and India’s Kekoo Naoroji Award. In 2011, the American Alpine Club awarded her its highest literary honour for excellence in mountain literature.

Bernadette was the founding Vice President of Mountain Culture at the Banff Centre and spent 20 years as director of the Banff Mountain Festivals. She is a recipient of the Alberta Order of Excellence, an honorary member of the Himalayan Club and the Polish Mountaineering Association, and a Fellow of The Explorers Club.

When she’s not writing, Bernadette can be found climbing, hiking, skiing, paddling, and growing grapes.

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A self-described recovering accountant, Lee left a 26-year career in finance to pursue his creative passion full-time. Since then, he’s become an award-winning and published photographer, leading workshops, mentoring other artists, and inspiring people to connect more deeply with nature through his work.

When he’s not exploring wild places on foot with his camera, you’ll find him enjoying bad dad jokes, dark chocolate, and a good cup of coffee, often while watching Formula 1 or British crime dramas.

Lee's Instagram

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In this episode of Let’s Take This Outside, Ollie opens up about losing direction in his twenties, leaving behind a conventional career, and finding purpose through long-distance walking. He shares powerful stories from the road, altitude sickness, moments of isolation, and the unexpected kindness of strangers who carried him through some of South America’s most remote landscapes, including Venezuela.

More than an adventure story, this conversation explores the connection between movement, simplicity, and mental health. Ollie reflects on how walking became a form of therapy, what modern life has lost in the pursuit of comfort, and why the outdoors can be a gateway to healing, gratitude, and resilience.

This is an episode about endurance without ego, adventure without spectacle, and the quiet power of putting one foot in front of the other.

Ollie's Instagram

Article from BBC

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In his sixties, Angelo took up long-distance running, progressing from 5Ks to half marathons and completing his first full marathon at age 66. Around the same time, he joined the Ottawa Independent Writers, where his storytelling flourished. He has since contributed seven published short stories and poetry, including the poem “The Path,” featured in his book Searching for Serenity: Finding My Way on the Camino de Santiago.

In 2023, Angelo walked the Camino de Santiago, a deeply transformative experience that inspired both his memoir and a documentary chronicling not only his own journey, but the shared humanity of people from around the world.

Today, Angelo spends his time with family, cooking, travelling, photographing the world around him, and writing stories rooted in resilience, reflection, and lifelong curiosity.

Angelo's Youtube

Buy his book now

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We talk about the Winterlude Triathlon, a one-of-a-kind event that could only happen in Ottawa, where athletes skate, ski, and run as part of the city’s Winterlude Festival.

Adam shares how this 40-year-old tradition brings the community together, and what it means to celebrate sport in every season.

BIO - Adam Kourakis

I've been with Somersault for 22 years (and I'm only 34 years old now!). I was hooked on Somersault from my very first event. For over two decades, I've been at every Somersault race - as a volunteer, a participant, a sponsor (with my other business Velofix Ottawa), and now as the owner & Race Director. 

I'm a lifelong athlete who loves to swim, bike, run, ski, snowshoe, rock climb, ice skate, etc. I love being outdoors and I'm very grateful to have the opportunity to give others chances to enjoy outdoor events. 

I'm also a father to an energetic 18-month-old girl. Ellie might be young, but she's already done a multisport race and is already training to take over the family business. 

About the Winterlude Triathlon

An event so unique that it could really only be hosted in Ottawa! Here's your chance to participate in the World's Oldest Winter Triathlons. 

This event has been going on since 1984 and it's part of the annual Winterlude Festival. This winter triathlon is made up of skating, running, and cross-country skiing. 

Watch dedicated winter enthusiasts ice skate for 7-8 km, cross-country ski for 6 km, and run for 5 km.

About Somersault Events

​​Somersault is a race series, based in Ontario, Canada, that specializes in multisport and running events. Somersault has been producing events for over 35 years and has grown to now host thousands of athletes each year.

Now under new ownership, co-owners and husband and wife, Adam Kourakis and Elizabeth Krause are committed to continuing the Somersault legacy of putting on incredible events in the National Capital Region.

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As the owner of Mountain Goat Adventures and a certified guide, Jeff has spent more than 15 years exploring the Bow Valley, Banff, and beyond, turning his passion for the outdoors into a way of life.

From long trail runs in remote corners of the Rockies to technical backcountry ski traverses, Jeff’s story is about curiosity, endurance, and what it means to truly know the mountains.

ABOUT JEFF

Jeff has lived and guided in the Bow Valley for over 15 years. As a certified ACMG Hiking Guide, Professional Interpretive Guide, and instructor of both flatwater canoeing and nordic skiing, Jeff has made his passions into his profession.

Having worked at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise for the last 15 years, Jeff has been able to explore and connect with the endless trails surrounding Banff, Canmore, Lake Louise and beyond. If there is a trail that you want to check out Jeff has most likely planted a hiking pole on it.

Currently, Jeff’s pursuits revolve around trail running in remote areas of the National Parks as well as long and technical backcountry skiing traverses.

Article that started it all:https://www.ctvnews.ca/calgary/article/canmore-man-hiked-every-trail-in-banff-national-park-on-quest-to-see-the-elusive-bison-herd/

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Her new project, Embers, is a powerful visual journey through loss, resilience, and renewal, blending art, science, and environmental storytelling. Featuring voices from glaciologists and wildfire experts, Embers reminds us what it means to find hope amid the ashes.

ABOUT SASHA

Sasha Galitzki is an acclaimed aerial artist and climate advocate. Her unique style of performance art shines a spotlight on the beauty and vulnerability of mountain environments. Losing her home in the 2024 Jasper wildfire strengthened her resolve to use her art to raise awareness of the impact of climate change on the places she loves and works to protect. Her unique perspective, breathtaking performance art, and creative approach to storytelling have made her a powerful voice in the fight against climate change. Additional voices from the scientific community — Glaciologists Dr. Alison Criscitiello & Dr. Mauri Pelto and wildfire experts Dr. Amy Cardinal Christianson & Dr. Mike Flannigan — support Sasha’s first-person narrative.

ABOUT EMBERS

After losing everything in a wildfire, aerial artist Sasha Galitzki performs amidst burnt forests and receding glaciers, channeling her grief into a visually arresting journey of environmental advocacy.

On July 24, 2024, a wildfire tore through Jasper, Alberta, reducing aerialist Sasha Galitzki's home to ashes. Embers connects Sasha's loss in the wildfire and the glacial recession she has witnessed in her creative work to highlight their common cause: climate change. Set in the year following the fire, Embers follows Sasha as she rebuilds her life and confronts the realities of a warming world. Through interviews with wildfire and glacier experts, she seeks to understand the heartbreaking changes affecting the mountains and community she loves. Gradually returning to her aerial practice, she performs over the ashes of her home and amidst the whirling winds of melting glaciers—inviting us on an intimate journey to find hope out of darkness. Embers captures a profound shift within Sasha, who channels her grief and art into a powerful and visually impactful message of environmental activism.

Watch the trailer for Embers here

Sasha's Instagram

Previous episode with Director Trixie Pacis

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She has also published on Rockies mountain guide and writer Tex Vernon-Wood, on gender and mountaineering film festivals, about the body of George Mallory and about Sherpa, the autobiography of Ang Tharkay.

Julie was a novice to intermediate general mountaineer and ice-climber in the Canadian Rockies (she is now retired), and enjoys snow-shoeing, hiking, road cycling and kayaking in the mountains, and other places too. 

Purchase False Summit

Watch Julie's TEDx Talk - Rope & Tshirts: Mountaineering Objects & Gender

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Showcasing some of Melissa’s most stunning bird images from the continental United States, Hawaii, and Canada, Dare to Bird explores the joy that birding and photography has brought to her life and how both have allowed her to foster meaningful connections with young birders from diverse backgrounds, along with the conservation community, eco-travel advocates, rare bird enthusiasts, and ethical wildlife viewing practitioners in order to preserve bird habitats that are constantly under threat.

At the same time, she is determined to expand birding to include more BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour), women, and LGBTQIA+ through youth outreach and talking about the barriers (racism and sexism) she herself has faced in her journey to become part of the birding community.

The magical imagery of birds is unparalleled in this inspiring collection, and Hafting helps the reader to understand why – as she believes – birds have the power to both save and heal us amid many of life’s challenges.

Purchase your copy of Dare to Bird.

Read Melissa's blog.

Follow Melissa on Instagram.

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Dan is also a National Magazine Award–winning journalist who contributes to publications such as The Walrus, The Globe and Mail, and enRoute, and he’s a former editor at Canadian Geographic magazine. His first book, ⁠Born to Walk,⁠ was a finalist for the Ottawa Book Awards and Kobo Emerging Writer Prize.

About Water Borne:

In June 2023, Rubinstein lashed camping gear to his stand-up paddleboard and embarked on an improbable solo voyage from Ottawa to Montreal, New York City, Toronto, and back to Ottawa along the rivers, lakes, and canals of a landlocked region.

Over 1,200 miles and 10 weeks, he explored the healing potential of “blue space” — the aquatic equivalent of green space — and sought out others drawn to their local waters. But the farther Rubinstein paddled, the more he realized that being in, on, or around water does more than boost our mental and physical health and prompt stewardship toward the natural world. He discovered that blue spaces are also a way to connect with the kaleidoscopic cross-section of people he met and the diverse geographies and communities he passed through.

Weaving together research, interviews, and an unmacho, malodorous, anticolonial adventure tale, Water Borne shows us that we don’t need an epic journey to find solutions to so many modern challenges. Repair and renewal may be close at hand: just add water.

Follow Dan on Instagram.

Visit Dan's website.

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Marlis is the first visitor to have “bagged” (visited) all 48 of the Canadian national parks, a third of which do not have road access. Her photographs and articles have been published in:

• Canadian Geographic Magazine,

• Explore magazine,

• The Explorers Club’s “Far Afield” magazine,

• CBC News on-line,

• CTV News on-line,

• Canadian Encyclopedia, and

• the travel brochures of various wilderness outfitters and travel bloggers.

Her book “Park Bagger - Adventures in the Canadian National Parks” made Amazon’s “best seller” August 2022. The movie “Park 33,” a short thriller, was inspired by her adventures. 

Marlis volunteers as a director on the board of the Royal Botanical Gardens, and has served on the board of the Bruce Trail Conservancy, protecting the Niagara Escarpment, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. Marlis is also an Ambassador for Canadian Geographic Adventures, “Making Canada better know to Canadians and the rest of the world”.

Upcoming book:

The Ladies’ Guide to Backpacking (Secrets Men Didn’t Tell You, And Don’t Even Know About)

Women have been backpacking, carrying heavy overnight supplies through the wilderness, since the beginning of time. Yet somewhere, someone decided that “ladies” should not be partaking in such physical, risky activities. Still, there have always been women who continued to backpack - we found ways of adjusting the equipment to better fit our physique, and methods to accommodate our uniquely female requirements.

In her new book, Marlis documents some of the unique adaptations and procedures that allow women to backpack comfortably: What backpack features to look for, how to carry a backpack, what type of boots to select, clothing requirements, and how to manage your menstrual period. With fun anecdotes and examples, Marlis shares what she’s learned through trial and error in the Canadian wilderness, so that “ladies” too, can enjoy backpacking.

Available in 2026.

Visit Marlis' website

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Julia’s mission is to inspire others to live every day with the spirit of a traveller— whether they’re dining at an international restaurant in their own city or hiking to a hidden lookout on the other side of the world. She believes every destination has something special to offer, and she’s made it her goal to uncover and share those gems through in-depth guides, immersive Reels, and engaging TikToks.

Since starting her blog, Little Miss Ottawa, to showcase her hometown and Canadian travel, Julia has grown a loyal community of curious adventurers and everyday explorers. She loves exploring near and far and has been to 40 countries. She's proud to call Ottawa, Ontario home and keeps herself busy being a tourist in her own city and province. 

Her storytelling is rooted in authenticity — always camera in hand, Julia captures beautiful views, unique stays, local flavours, and one-of-a-kind experiences. She knows how to showcase a destination in a way that feels exciting yet attainable, leaving her audience feeling inspired and ready to plan their own trip.

She’s enjoyed working with Canadian tourism brands from 1000 Islands to Nova Scotia and International brands like Tourism Peru and Visit Europe. 

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In 2024, Shanda made history by becoming the first woman ever to complete a Triple Deca Triathlon in the continuous format. This extreme event includes a 114 kilometre swim, a 5400 kilometre bike ride, and a 1266 kilometre run. That is equal to 30 full Iron-distance triathlons completed one after the other with no stage breaks.

As of today, Shanda has completed 145 full Iron-distance triathlons across just 12 ultra events, all officially sanctioned by the International Ultra Triathlon Association. She holds the women's world record for the most IUTA iron-distance finishes and has been inducted into the IUTA Hall of Fame 100.

In 2025, Shanda is taking on her most ambitious goal yet. She is aiming to complete 51 Iron-distance triathlons in a single year with the goal of breaking the current men’s world record. Her races will take her across South Africa, Brazil, France, Poland, Germany, Estonia, and Austria.

Known for her unmatched grit, deep connection to nature, and relentless mental toughness, Shanda continues to inspire people around the world. Whether she is racing, training, or speaking to communities, she lives by the belief that you are always capable of more than you think.

Learn more about Shanda.

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Flow takes readers on an inspiring journey through the world of women in adventure sports, challenging stereotypes and celebrating the strength, resilience, and unity of women across the globe. This unique collection highlights the powerful, diverse voices of women who are redefining what’s possible in outdoor sports like whitewater kayaking, climbing, mountaineering, and highlining.

With photography and stories from around the world, Flow captures the personal narratives of women from a wide range of countries, including Ecuador, India, México, Poland, the Czech Republic, Germany, the United States, and Canada. These women share their unique experiences, whether as newcomers or seasoned professionals, offering insights into their journeys and the challenges they face.

Edited by Denisa Krásná and Alena Rainsberry, Flow examines the intersections of gender, race, class, and sexual identity within the context of extreme sports, offering a fresh perspective on the barriers these women have overcome. More than just a collection of stories, this book is a celebration of the diverse paths these women have taken, and the common drive that unites them in their pursuit of adventure.

Flow is not just about extreme sports; it’s about the women who are shaping them. It’s about empowerment, breaking down barriers, and embracing a more inclusive vision of outdoor adventure.

Denisa Krásná is a Czech highliner and climber with ambitions as lofty as her lines in the sky. She aims to walk long, high lines in beautiful airscapes all over the world, combining her passion for highlining and alpinism, and simply appreciating the beauty of mountains. When she’s not on the line, Denisa is a dedicated scholar in the fields of Indigenous studies, critical animal and vegan studies, environmental humanities, and ecofeminism. She comes from Přerov, Czechia.

Alena Rainsberry is a queer American kayaker who wants to explore rivers all around the world. Since being introduced to whitewater kayaking in 2021, she has navigated rapids from the Ecuadorian jungle to the Indian Himalayas. She thrives in immersing herself in diverse cultural environments and has a knack for making friends and community wherever she travels. She is a passionate advocate for increasing representation, getting women into the outdoors, and encouraging people to experience new things. She is from the Pacific Northwest, where she currently lives and kayaks.

Purchase your copy of Flow.

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Her latest book, published by ECW Press in Toronto in 2024, is entitled 40 Days & 40 Hikes:  Loving the Bruce Trail One Loop at a Time. Part illustrated memoir, part hiking guide and part  good storytelling, it describes her journey along Ontario’s 900-kilometre Bruce Trail from  Queenston Heights on the Niagara Peninsula to Tobermory on the Bruce. 40 Days & 40 Hikes is  in its second printing. (See reviews.) 

Ross’s other adventures include crossing Costa Rica from coast to coast via the Camino de Costa  Rica, crossing Spain via the Camino de Santiago de Compostela, crossing Mexico’s Zapateca  lands in the Sierra Norte, crossing parts of Austria, Slovenia and Italy along the Alpe Adria Trail and following Newfoundland’s east coast on the East Coast Trail, among others. She has canoed  the fabled Mountain and Keele Rivers in the Northwest Territories and kayaked through Haida  Gwaii, the Sea of Cortez and Georgian Bay. Moreover, she’s cycled through Cuba, Italy, France,  Canada and Mexico, and has ridden a horse across Patagonia. 

Formerly a climate change consultant, Nicola is a biologist and columnist with In the Hills magazine. Her articles have been published in The Walrus, The Globe and Mail, Explore  magazine, Mountain Life, Avenue, Ontario Nature, Alternatives Journal, and more. She was a  regular environmental contributor to CBC Radio in Calgary, regularly appears on the CBC Radio  program Fresh Air and was the long-.me editor-in-chief of Alternatives Journal, Canada’s  national environmental magazine. She is a popular speaker at various events. 

Nicola’s adventures and the books and articles she writes about them reflect her love for nature and passion to be on the trail, atop a bicycle, paddling a kayak or seated on a horse. Similarly,  her talks combine these passions taking them beyond the adventure to the importance of what  she learns and sees. 

More recently, she chronicled her journey along Newfoundland’s East Coast Trail with a series of  annotated hand-drawn maps. It will be the first installment of her new e-zine, Hither & Yon, An  Illustrated Field Journal of Adventure Travel along Trails, Roads, Rivers and the High Seas. In  2025, she has set her sights on walking the 415-kilometre Andalusian Coast to Coast Trail and,  possibly, the 1000-kilometre Via de la Plata, both in Spain. 

Among an emerging group of female adventure travel writers, Nicola is bringing the 2025 Women’s Adventure Film Tour to Southern Ontario. The event, to be held in her home village, involves a showing of half a dozen films. She hopes to add a series of panel discussions and  interviews with female adventurers in future events. 

Nicola resides with her partner in a small stone mill (circa 1857) in Alton, Ontario and writes a  popular blog at nicolaross.ca.

More on the Women's Adventure Film Tour

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Chris spends much of his time outdoors, hiking and paddling in the Scottish highlands and has a passion for the natural world, wild places, and adventures.

Chris brings a unique blend of curiosity and storytelling to every conversation, including a unique format that encourages adventure in everyday life. Through his Call To Adventure & Pay It forward segments listeners will discover new perspectives and adventures from every guest – making adventure, exploration and the natural world wholly accessible.

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After completing a Biology degree at Carleton University in Ottawa, she started her business in 2017 that was created with the intention to connect her community with the natural world around them. With a deep rooted love for nature and over a decade of experience in creating vibrant, green spaces, Emma specializes in blending interior design with sustainable practices and crafting landscapes that honor and restore the environment.

Her unique approach combines innovation and conservation, showcasing how thoughtful design can transform homes and gardens into harmonious ecosystems. From lush moss walls to DIY terrariums, and even rewilding landscapes, Emma inspires others to embrace sustainability in both style and function, making her a sought-after expert in the green design world.

Watch The Urban Botanist on Youtube.

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She is currently a global climate and environment correspondent at Reuters News Agency. With over a decade of experience reporting on environmental issues, she has written for The New York Times, The Guardian, Wired magazine, and Scientific American magazine, among others. In 2018, she was named a National Geographic Explorer. Eight Bears, was chosen as a best book of 2023 by The New Yorker, The Economist, and Scientific American, shortlisted for the 2023 Banff Centre Mountain Book Awards, and received second place for the 2024 Rachel Carson Environment Book Award.

Originally from Canada, she is currently based in London, England.

Learn more about Gloria.

Eight Bears is now available in paperback.

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Brad played for both the Calgary Stampeders and the Ottawa Redblacks, and was twice named the CFL’s most Outstanding Canadian and has won two Grey Cups.

Brad’s passion for the outdoors has seamlessly carried over into his post-football life, as he has become a successful fishing charter operator. Based in Ottawa, Sinopoli combines his love of nature with his entrepreneurial spirit, offering guided fishing experiences through his company, Sinopoli Fishing. 

Also in this episode is fellow podcaster and broadcaster, Brent Wallace from Comin’ In Hot, who has worked alongside Brad and will handle all the football related questions.

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His expeditions include being the first to canoe across Canada in one season, rowing the Northwest Passage, and circumnavigating both Haida Gwaii and Vancouver Island by kayak. In 2020 he was named One of Canada's 'Greatest 90 Explorers of All Time' by Canadian Geographic.

He is a regular feature writer and columnist for Explore Magazine and has written two books on his adventures: Two Springs, One Summer (2024) and Lines on a Map (2018), both published by RMB.

Follow Frank on Instagram.

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Dr. Sasha Gollish is a passionate advocate for gender equity in sport, a Team Canada middle- and long-distance runner, and a dedicated mentor to young athletes. With a career spanning elite athletic competition, coaching, engineering, and research, Sasha combines her expertise to inspire girls and women to excel in sport and life.

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ABOUT RIDEAU LAKES CYCLE TOUR:

The Rideau Lakes Cycle Tour (RLCT) is a two-day cycle tour organised by the Ottawa Bicycle Club that takes its riders from Ottawa (or Perth) to Kingston and back. The first tour took place in 1972, and this year it will be its 51st edition on June 21-22,2025. On Saturday, the tour will take cyclists through the scenic countryside of the Rideau Valley passing many picturesque lakes and historic towns on the way to Kingston, where participants will spend the evening fueling and resting at Queens University before making the return trip home on Sunday. There are four routes to choose from with one-way lengths ranging from 118km to 220km. Registration is now open for 2025 and more information can be found here: https://ottawabicycleclub.ca/rlct/

ABOUT OBC:

The Ottawa Bicycle Club (OBC) has been predominant in Ottawa's cycling scene for the past 50 years. The original OBC started in 1882 and ran until the late 1920s before It was re-established as a club in 1971. Over the years, the OBC has established a broad spectrum of programs and activities and is dedicated to providing high quality recreational and competitive cycling opportunities for cyclists of all ages.

The OBC has something for everyone! Check out www.ottawabicycleclub.ca for more information on how to join the club and take part in club activities that interest you.

ABOUT CRISTINA:

Cristina Inglis is an outdoor enthusiast who has a passion for all forms of cycling - whether it be riding the tarmac, quiet gravel roads or on the mountain bike trails. She has been a member of the Ottawa Bicycle Club since 2010 and now plays an active role on its board as the communications director as well as on the Rideau Lakes Cycle Tour organization committee. Cristina participated in the RLCT in 2022 and 2023, as both a rider and a volunteer route marshal. When she's not on her bike, Cristina works as an environmental scientist for the federal government.

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Through her work Judy highlights her experience as a black woman that skis, rides mountain bikes, hikes, camps, climbs, and explores. Colour the Trails focuses on improving access to outdoor activities for BIPoC (including those who lay within the intersection of BIPoC and 2SLGBTQAI+ community) adventurers.

About Colour the Trails

Colour the Trails is a national Black woman owned business, focused on improving access to outdoor activities for BIPoC (including those who lay within the intersection of BIPoC and 2SLGBTQAI+ community)  adventurers. We pride ourselves on not only hosting events that break barriers for BIPoC to enter outdoor sports, but also for creating media that showcases BIPoC stories in the outdoors – because representation matters. Through our programming and initiatives, we aim to build awareness, dismantle barriers and create accessible opportunities for participation in outdoor recreation.

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Natalie Gillis's Portfolio

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Gatineau Park is the National Capital Region’s conservation park. The largest green space in the region, the Park occupies an area of more than 361 square kilometres and is a place of rich and unique biodiversity. It is the second-most visited park in Canada, and a destination for outdoor enthusiasts to engage in recreational activities that respect the environment.

Gatineau Park’s vast territory is divided into several sectors, one of which is accessible from downtown Ottawa–Gatineau, and each of which feature various points of interest and historical places. Unlike other national parks, this park has several entry points, and some roads through it, leading to the northern and western sectors.

About Rachel Paquette:

Rachel Paquette is an environmental educator with a rich academic background and over 15 years of experience as a Program Officer in nature interpretation with the National Capital Commission.

She has a Bachelor of Science degree, specializing in ecology, and a master’s diploma in Environmental Education, which reflects her dedication to bridging the gap between people and the environment. She is a certified English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher, enabling her to communicate effectively across diverse audiences and cultures. Fueling her work is an unwavering passion for engaging, educating, and connecting people to the value of the natural environment and the importance of biodiversity conservation. 

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In this episode, we’re celebrating highlights from six of our most impactful conversations. You'll hear...

1) Dianne Whelan share her profound reflections from her 500 Days in the Wild project, and connecting to nature.

2) James Appleton is the host of The 46 of 46 Podcast. James talks about the Adirondacks being a welcoming place for Canadians.

3) Kevin Callan is the author of the best-selling The Happy Camper and his incredibly popular series of paddling guides. Kevin talks about the joys of portaging in our beautiful country.

4) Outdoor, travel and adventure writer Meghan Ward shares her experience with her children in the wilderness, and wanted to pass those lessons on.

5) Paul Zizka is an award-winning mountain landscape and adventure photographer. I asked Paul about the reality of being a full time wildlife photographer and parent.

6) Finally, I talked to fellow creator Sarah Christie - Sarah created the eco-conscious interview series, Earth Care. Sarah talks about the tumultuous fight against Premier Doug Ford - Hands off the Greenbelt.

Let’s dive back into the best moments of 2024—each clip a reminder of why we love exploring, adventuring, and connecting with the wild world around us.

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Taryn is a Leave No Trace Master Educator, the President of the Friends of Garibaldi Park Society, a member of the Board of Directors of the Vancouver International Mountain Film Festival, and a Fellow of the Canadian Geographic Society.

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She completed PhD in Geology and Planetary Science and Exploration at the Earth and Planetary Institute, at Western University. Her studies focused on meteorite impact craters, and lunar and Martian analogue environments in the Canadian Arctic and sub-Arctic.

After 13 northern expeditions, she has developed considerable expertise leading and managing field expeditions and had the privilege of assisting in the expedition and geology training of 3 astronauts. Cassandra has also participated and led a series of simulated robotic and human missions designed to learn, train and prepare for real missions to the Moon and Mars. She has more than a decade of experience in education and public outreach, developing and delivering science programming. In her current role as Science Advisor for the Canada Aviation and Space Museum in Ottawa, she acts as a science communicator dedicated to sharing her passion and knowledge of Earth and planetary science with communities near and far.

Canada Aviation and Space Museum Instagram

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When he's not on the trails, James can be found swinging a microphone in the film/television industry, hitting the squat rack, or home with his wife and three girls. 

About 46 of 46 Podcast

The 46 of 46 Podcast is an outdoors storytelling podcast based in the largest protected wilderness area in the continental United States. This 6-million acre "forever wild" forest preserve is known as the Adirondack Park, situated in northern New York. The podcast chronicles James Appleton's days on the trails in the Adirondacks (and beyond) in a unique trip-report style format that is equal parts entertainment, trail information, and stories. 

https://46of46.com/

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As a professional engineer with the Order of Engineers of Quebec, Mathieu co-founded and led his own environmental consulting firm, where he brings a wide range of both leadership and hands-on experience to the organization.

Mathieu joined Trans Canada Trail in 2017 as Vice-President, Chief Trail Experience Officer. In this role, he led trail operation and development, and helped execute Trans Canada Trail’s $30-million funding relationship with Parks Canada and $55-million agreement with the federal government.

Mathieu lives close to the La Montagnarde section of the Trans Canada Trail, which he explores on his bike in summer and on skis in winter.

About Trans Canada Trail

The Trans Canada Trail (the Trail) is the longest recreational trail in the world, spanning over 28,000 kilometres on land and water.

Linking three oceans – the Atlantic, Pacific and Arctic – the Trail connects 15,000 rural, urban and Indigenous communities across every province and territory. It is a ribbon that connects Canada’s diverse landscapes, seasons, people and experiences, and fosters unity, collaboration and connectedness.

Trans Canada Trail is a registered charity and stewards this national trail in collaboration with local trail partners. With funding from the Government of Canada through Parks Canada, and investments from all levels of government and generous donors, Trans Canada Trail is the largest investor in trail infrastructure projects in Canada, supporting improvements, growth and enhancements for generations to come.

tctrail.ca

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Profiled as a travel expert on five continents (including 60 Minutes, Travel + Leisure, The Sydney Morning Herald, CBC, South China Morning Post and The Wall St Journal) Robin created and co-hosted Word Travels for OLN, National Geographic and Travel Channel International. The 40-part series has been broadcast in more than 100 countries and 21 languages. 

Robin has written six bestselling books, including The Great Global Bucket List, The Great Canadian Bucket List and The Great Australian Bucket List.

His popular TEDx talk about travel has over one million views, and his stories and photography have appeared in dozens of major publications worldwide. 

Based in Vancouver, Robin is currently a columnist and travel ambassador for Canadian Geographic, and an influential corporate speaker, advising audiences where to go, and how to travel better.  

www.robinesrock.com

@robinesrock 

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Dianne has written, directed, and produced two award winning films, a three-part series for CBC, a Gemini-nominated interactive website, written two books and has exhibited her photographs in numerous art galleries in her 30-year career.

In August 2021 she completed the land and water trails of the 24,000km Trans Canada Trail and is the first person to do so. The journey is the subject of film project 500 Days in the Wild, and will be the story of her next book.

www.diannewhelan.com

www.500daysinthewild.com

www.beaconprojectfilms.com

Stay connected with Dianne on Instagram @500daysinthewild for a visual journey through the making and release of her latest feature documentary.

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Her French-language book, Dépasser l’horizon, invites readers along on her journey. For her accomplishment, Paquette was awarded the Medal of Honour by the National Assembly of Quebec, as well as the Meritorious Service Cross by the Governor General — an award given to citizens who have accomplished exceptional deeds that bring honour to Canada.

Paquette began sailing and rowing in the mid-2000s and immersed herself in navigation, sailing and marine survival courses to learn the skills she would need to feed her hunger for adventure.

Also an avid ice-canoe racer, Paquette aims to bring awareness to the health of the integral waterways of Canada that she explores, whether it be the churning waves of the Atlantic, the ice-crusted currents of the St. Lawrence or the freezing floes of the Arctic Ocean, where she is planning an expedition through the Northwest Passage.

Mylène's Website: https://www.mylenepaquette.com/en/

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From the peaks of the Canadian Rockies to iceberg-laden seas off the coast of Greenland, Paul’s journey to capture the “under-documented” is a testament to his passion for exploration, his creative vision and fierce sense of determination. These qualities, combined with his pursuit of fresh perspectives and a deep love for the landscape, have resulted in an ever-growing portfolio of cutting-edge images.

Whether it’s wading waist-deep into a glacier-fed lake or chasing auroras from dusk til dawn, Paul is known for an adventurous spirit that draws him to the extraordinary. Highlighting his collection are his signature self-portraits, epic mountaineering moments, dreamy astrophotography images, as well as a window into some of the most remote corners of the planet.

In June 2016, his passion for the craft and for teaching led him and Dave Brosha to launch OFFBEAT, a company that strives to help fellow photographers discover their creative side and develop a deep appreciation for the wilderness. He is also passionate about sharing the beauty and grandeur of his own home country and was named a Fellow of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society in 2017.

Paul’s images have been featured on countless book covers and in a variety of highly regarded publications, including National Geographic, Outside Magazine, Globe and Mail, Wall Street Journal, Alpinist, Maclean’s, Canadian Geographic, Islands, and Outdoor Photographer. His client list includes leading national and global brands such as Canon, Apple, NHL, Dell, Arc’Teryx, Panasonic and MEC.

A prolific adventurer, Paul’s explorations have taken him to all seven continents, as well as to each of Canada’s provinces and territories. In the Canadian Rockies, Paul has hiked extensively in the backcountry and photographed from the summits of countless peaks. His adventures abroad include a 1400-km unsupported double-crossing of Iceland on foot, which is believed to be the first of its kind, and a 1488-km solo crossing of the South Island of New Zealand. He has also explored such destinations as Antarctica, Norway, Svalbard, Nepal, Greenland, the Caribbean, Niue, French Polynesia, Namibia, the Faroe Islands, Baffin Island and the Torngat Mountains.

Paul has published eight books (published by Rocky Mountain Books) including four coffee table style books of photography: Summits & Starlight: the Canadian Rockies (2013), The Canadian Rockies: Rediscovered (2017), Aloft: Canadian Rockies Aerial Photography and Spirits in the Sky: Northern Lights Photography (2021).

Paul lives in Banff, Alberta, with his wife, writer Meghan J. Ward, and their two daughters.

Paul's Website: https://www.zizka.ca

Cryophilia Project: https://www.zizka.ca/cryophilia

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As a Fellow of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society and the author behind "Lights to Guide Me Home," Meghan brings a wealth of experience and insight. Her diverse portfolio spans books, films, anthologies, blogs, and contributions to North America's premier outdoor, fitness, and adventure publications--and now the LTTO podcast, where she shares her captivating stories of exploration.

Meghan's Website: https://www.meghanjoyward.com

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She firmly believes that learning in community in nature-based spaces provides pathways to self-discovery, interpersonal understanding, and a profound connection to the world at large. Now grounded on land (at least most of the time), Jennifer focuses on designing and hosting transformative learning experiences for both youth and adults.

Since 2022, one of her key projects has been the development of Camp WILD, a summer-camp style wellness retreat for women centered around the principles of Wonder, Ignite, Let Go, and Discover. Camp WILD is a space for women to rejuvenate, reconnect, and rediscover themselves through the power of play and community. When not working you can often find Jennifer floating in her unicorn, Peggy, outside playing in the woods, or at home baking or making soap.

About Camp WILD

Our story began in 2019, with the all too common story of burnout. Part of the burnout self-care plan for Camp WILD founder Jenn was attending a women’s camp in Portland, Oregon, which ultimately led to the birth of this WILD community. After returning home rejuvenated and inspired, Jenn kept asking herself, what becomes possible when a group of badass women gather in the woods, play and experience the power of community? Following the pandemic this question became riper than ever and in 2022 it officially began.

https://www.campwild.ca

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In 2021, he was ranked in the world top 300 climate change scientists by Reuters. In 2023, he was recognized as one of Canada’s top scholars when he was inducted as a Fellow the Royal Society of Canada.

He has advised a wide range of governments and tourism organizations around the world, including the United Nations World Tourism Organization, United Nations Environment Programme, World Bank, European Tourism Commission, World Travel and Tourism Council, International Olympic Committee, OECD, the Caribbean Tourism Organization. He has also been a contributor to the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Third, Fourth, Fifth Assessments and their 1.5°C special report.

His tourism research publications have been downloaded over a half million times and have been featured in many leading media outlets, including The Economist, New York Times, Guardian, Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, BBC, Time, Scientific American, Sports Illustrated, National Geographic and many other others.

Article: Ski resorts’ era of plentiful snow may be over due to climate crisis, study finds

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Register and find out more at their website https://multisportcanada.com.

About MultiSport Canada

MultiSport Canada is an event management company that produces Triathlon, Duathlon, Running and Cycling events in Ontario. Since it's inception in 2002, the MultiSport Canada Triathlon Series has been the fastest growing Triathlon Series in North America. In 2010, MultiSport Canada became the largest 100% Canadian owned Triathlon Series in the world. MultiSport Canada also produces over forty (40) events under contract to various profit and not-for-profit corporations with a very simply philosophy; create events with superior race execution and safety standards where the customer’s experience is the top priority.

About Carolynne Simons

Carolynne joins Multisport Canada with a passion for growing the fitness community. Since 2013, you may have seen her on the race course or engaging with participants as a Triathlon Series Ambassador. She believes that customers and communications are key in her role during events and behind the scenes.

Carolynne brings 14 years of health and wellness industry experience as director of Stay Fit Plans Inc, where she partnered with reputable organizations such as Curves for Women, The Cleveland Clinic, and Novo Nordisk Canada. Her focus on building organizational wellness strategies and specialized healthcare networks helped develop her ability to connect people.

Carolynne was formerly a certified strength and conditioning specialist and NCCP coach. Her background in varsity athletics and combined studies in business operations management and health science from The University of Western Ontario fueled an entrepreneurial mindset.

About Jason Vurma

Jason combines a unique ability to see the interdependent aspects of an event and how they all need to come together. This ability, combined with his firm commitment to lead by example from the front, truly sets him apart in the world of Event Management.

After racing his first Olympic Distance Triathlon at age 16 and his first Half Ironman at age 19, Jason competed as a top age-group racer into his mid-twenties with three Ironman finishes to his credit. Jason then turned to off-road events such as Adventure Racing, 24hr Solo Mountain Biking and long-distance Cross Country Skiing.

It was during this time that Jason joined John Salt at MultiSport Canada and jumped head-first into the world of event management. Now, nearly 15 years later, John and Jason have built-up MultiSport Canada into the largest Triathlon Series in the country with a reputation for unmatched logistics while always putting their customer’s needs first.

Jason has also had the pleasure of working-on some other large-scale events acting as the: Race Director for the Joe’s Team Triathlon; Event Director for Tough Mudder (Toronto 2013); Course Director for Centurion Cycling & EGames (2013 & 2014); Course Director for the Sporting Life 10K; Course Director for the RBC Race for the Kids and, most recently, Event Director for the Highway of Heroes Ride supporting Wounded Warriors Canada. Through these experiences, Jason has come to work with some amazing colleagues, staff, suppliers and volunteers.

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https://kevincallan.com

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Rick Vidal is the owner of NewVida Preserve, a 2000-acre resort in the Adirondack High Peaks with a rich history as a former ski mountain and only minutes to Whiteface. He also founded Cascada Farm in the Hudson Valley, a historic 400 acre farm with incredible waterfalls in its 5th year of operations with 2000+ 5-star reviews. Prior to this, Rick was a senior data scientist at Google for 10 years, tech entrepreneur, consultant and physician. He is married to Matt Vidal and they have 3 beautiful children. He and his family are passionate about bringing new life to properties with a rich history and vast natural environment, creating gathering places where both the local community and tourists can come together for diverse wellness, outdoor recreation and culinary experiences.

Cover art photo by Jamie McGiver of Due West Photos.

Check out this great article in the National Post: https://nationalpost.com/travel/hotel-intel-newvida-channels-pure-adirondack-mountain-life

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ABOUT RIDEAU LAKES CYCLE TOUR:

The Rideau Lakes Cycle Tour (RLCT) is a two-day cycle tour organised by the Ottawa Bicycle Club that takes its riders from Ottawa (or Perth) to Kingston and back. The first tour took place in 1972, and this year it will be its 51st edition on June 8-9, 2024. On Saturday, the tour will take cyclists through the scenic countryside of the Rideau Valley passing many picturesque lakes and historic towns on the way to Kingston, where participants will spend the evening fueling and resting at Queens University before making the return trip home on Sunday. There are four routes to choose from with one-way lengths ranging from 118km to 220km. Registration is now open for 2024 and more information can be found here: https://ottawabicycleclub.ca/rlct/

ABOUT OBC:

The Ottawa Bicycle Club (OBC) has been predominant in Ottawa's cycling scene for the past 50 years. The original OBC started in 1882 and ran until the late 1920s before It was re-established as a club in 1971. Over the years, the OBC has established a broad spectrum of programs and activities and is dedicated to providing high quality recreational and competitive cycling opportunities for cyclists of all ages.

The OBC has something for everyone! Check out www.ottawabicycleclub.ca for more information on how to join the club and take part in club activities that interest you.

ABOUT CRISTINA:

Cristina Inglis is an outdoor enthusiast who has a passion for all forms of cycling - whether it be riding the tarmac, quiet gravel roads or on the mountain bike trails. She has been a member of the Ottawa Bicycle Club since 2010 and now plays an active role on its board as the communications director as well as on the Rideau Lakes Cycle Tour organization committee. Cristina participated in the RLCT in 2022 and 2023, as both a rider and a volunteer route marshal. When she's not on her bike, Cristina works as an environmental scientist for the federal government.

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Article mentioned: https://canadiangeographic.ca/articles/an-island-of-change/

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She is a veteran of over thirty years of filming, photography, and exploration on projects in submerged caves around the world. Jill is the first Explorer in Residence for the Royal Canadian Geographical Society, recipient of Canada’s prestigious Polar Medal and is a Fellow of the International Scuba Divers Hall of Fame. In recognition of her lifetime achievement, Jill was awarded the Sir Christopher Ondaatje Medal for Exploration from the RCGS and the William Beebe Award from the Explorers Club.

Watch the trailer for Jill's new film: www.DivingIntoTheDarkness.com 

The world premiere is at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival on February 10!

Jill's Website

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Take It Outside Website

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The Fans Choose To Reuse pledge is a community of music fans taking climate action by reducing plastic bottle pollution one concert at a time. Concert attendees are encouraged to bring a reusable water bottle to live music events to eliminate the need for buying a single-use plastic bottle. (If the venue allows reusable water bottles) There is also a free pledge available online for music fans to take and join the growing community of fans choosing to reuse. Pledge participants are also encouraged to show their reusable water bottle in action at concerts via social media and include the hashtag #FansChooseToReuse to help spread the word!

Pledge link: https://www.earthcareshow.com/fanschoosetoreuse

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A multi-passionate and award-winning entrepreneur, Alicia Simms is the Founder and CEO of Rolling Sea Tattooery, Truro Buzz Media and Promotions, and Secret Nova Scotia. She and her husband Tyson are also the co-producers and hosts of Trailer Travels, a 13-episode TV show airing on Eastlink Community TV in May 2023. 

Originally from Mount Pearl, Newfoundland, Alicia moved to Truro, Nova Scotia, in 2014 and fell in love with her local community. An award-winning tattooer of 15.5 years, Alicia opened her first business, Rolling Sea Tattooery, in the heart of downtown Truro. 

In 2017, inspired by her love for her new home and a sense of pride, community, and authenticity she had never felt elsewhere, Alicia launched Truro Buzz. What began as a passion project quickly became a full-scale advertising and media company that forever changed Alicia’s life. Over the last few years, Alicia has grown Truro Buzz from social media platforms only to a website, weekly newsletter, event coverage, product development, and social media training for small businesses. 

Alicia launched her third business, Secret Nova Scotia, a one-stop destination to discover the North Shore of Nova Scotia and a sister company to Truro Buzz in 2020. This seasonal tour company promises an opportunity for guests to discover hidden experiences and culinary treasures only the locals know about.

Most recently, Alicia and her husband started a production company and produced a show for Eastlink Community TV, which they also host called “Trailer Travels.” The couple travels around Nova Scotia in their Airstream trailer, affectionately named ‘The Clutterbug,’ exploring communities and meeting the people there.

Alicia’s passions are food, fun, and fashion. Facebook analytics told her that her number one hobby is eating! She lives in Colchester County and is about to embark on their greatest adventure - downsizing their life in a 2400 square foot house into their 184 square foot trailer with Meloo. You can find them road-tripping around Nova Scotia to discover new gems in Canada’s Ocean Playground.

Sign up for Alicia's Newsletter @ aliciaetattoo.ca

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He gets the most joy knowing that he’s helping people to create the experiences that end up as the photos on their walls, the stories that are told at family reunions, and the memories that last a lifetime. He has spent his career in high-growth start-ups and scale-ups, though he’s happiest exploring the world with his wife and 3 children.

10Adventures Podcast

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Based in Toronto, his efforts to document nature's worst weather conditions have taken him all over the globe, into places most normal people are fleeing from. Whether it's a tornado outbreak in Kansas, a monster hurricane in the Gulf of Mexico, forest fires in British Columbia, or even an erupting volcano, he's usually in the middle of the action with his camera rolling. His efforts have been seen around the world on the Discovery Channel, National Geographic Explorer, BBC-TV, CNN and of course, his own adventure TV program Angry Planet which has been broadcast in over 100 countries.

George's Website

George's Youtube

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Jeff most recently is proud to add travel documentarian to his list of adventures as he stars in “Never say Never with Jeff Jenkins.” A show that explores diverse cultures, locations and overcoming fears, backed by National Geographic.

Jeff's Website Chubby Diaries

Jeff's Instagram

Jeff's Facebook

Jeff's TikTok

Jeff's Youtube

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The Grand Prix Cycliste de Montréal is an event on the UCI WorldTour with the participation of the 18 WorldTeams composed of the greatest riders of the planet.

With its ideal location on Mount Royal, the Grand Prix Cycliste de Montréal circuit is a sure-fire guarantee of an extremely high calibre competition. An intimidating course, consisting of a demanding climb that forces an exceedingly difficult cadence, repeated several times—that’s what the Grand Prix Cycliste de Montréal has in store for the planet’s cycling elite. The downtown circuit will be a thrilling experience for the world’s greatest champions and thousands of fans from here and abroad.

Please enjoy my live chat from downtown Montreal at Soboire. 

Picture courtesy of Nigel Ellsay.

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“When Hope Breaks Through”, is directed by award-winning filmmaker Matthew Wagner and the film explores the Canadian mental health crisis by following Mike’s journey. The film is beautiful, inspiring and also raw and real as it documents the highs and lows of Mike’s journey beginning with a devastating health crisis that left Mike immobile and unable to walk in 2019.

Mike’s crusade became one of the largest mental health awareness campaigns led by an individual in Canadian history. This athlete and advocate is now educating and motivating audiences to achieve their own excellence through his keynotes focused on mental health resilience, perseverance and drive.

Clearly a person who understands the value of self belief and resilience, you will want to lean forward when Mike takes the stage.

Mike's Website

Mike's Instagram

Mike's Twitter (X)

Mike's Facebook

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A professional athlete and a coach, she has stood on podiums in obstacle course racing, trail racing, skyrunning, mountain biking, gravel riding, adventure racing, off road triathlons, and skimo racing. Her short term dream goal is to make it to the 2026 Winter Olympics as a part of the Slovenian Skimo national team and long term she hopes to never stop pushing her limits and playing in the mountains.

Rea's Instagram

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He is the founder of Explore Podcast Productions, working with a range of clients including a number of national Indigenous organizations. Before making the switch to podcasting in 2019, David spent over 20 years as a foreign correspondent and senior producer for CBC News, NPR News, NBC News, CTV News and the PBS NewsHour, working from bureaus in Moscow, Beijing, Rome, Nairobi and Washington. He now lives in Chelsea, Quebec.

Adam Shoalts Episode

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau Episode

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Adam’s new book comes out Oct 3, called “Where The Falcon Flies - a 3,400km Odyssey from My Doorstep to the Arctic”. (Pre-order now)

About Where The Falcon Flies

A 3,400 km solo journey from Lake Erie to the Arctic.

From Penguin Random House: “Looking out his porch window one spring morning, Adam Shoalts spotted a majestic peregrine falcon flying across the neighbouring fields near Lake Erie. Falcons migrate annually from southernmost Canada on the Great Lakes to remote arctic mountains. Grabbing his backpack and canoe, Shoalts resolved to follow the falcon’s route north on an astonishing 3,400-kilometre journey from Lake Erie to the Arctic.

Along the way, he faces a huge variety of challenges and obstacles, including storms on the Great Lakes, finding campsites in the urban wilderness of Toronto and Montreal, avoiding busy commercial freighter traffic, gale force winds, massive hydro electric dams, bushwhacking without trails, dealing with hunger, multiple bear encounters, and navigating white-water rapids on icy northern rivers far from any help.”

About Adam

Adam Shoalts is a professional explorer and national best-selling author. In 2013, he was elected a Fellow of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society for “extraordinary contributions to geography” and in 2017 completed a nearly 4,000 km solo journey across Canada’s Arctic.

A geographer and historian, he holds a Ph.D. from McMaster University, has participated in numerous archaeological projects and digs, and undertakes solo expeditions in the most remote wilderness areas. He is currently the Westaway Explorer-in-Residence of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society and in 2016 was named a national champion of the Trans-Canada Trail.

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Welcome to Banff National Park - Canada’s first National Park. This spring I went on a little adventure to Banff, Lake Louise and the Athabasca Glacier.

I spoke with locals and experts on the history of this beautiful place, and how we can play and protect these lands, plants and animals.

Interview 1: First I talked to Craig Baird, history buff and host of the podcast Canadian History Ehx about the history of Banff, its indigenous roots, and what it was before becoming a National Park.

Interview 2: Today, the park gets millions of visitors per year, with the mountains and outdoor activities being the biggest draw. We talked to Kim Logan - from Banff & Lake Louise Tourism.

Interview 3: Exploring and doing so responsibly are absolutely essential - so we talked to Natalie Fay - from Parks Canada in the Banff Field Unit.

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Her reported features, profiles, and essays have appeared in The Washington Post, Outside Magazine, Runner's World, Family Circle, SELF, Eating Well, VICE, and espnW, among others. {See her portfolio here.} She also writes for trade publications, professional associations, educational institutions, and brands. Her clients include Columbia University, Johns Hopkins University, Phillips Academy, the American Physiological Society, and REI.

In addition to writing, she’s a seasoned grant writer and has led and managed the full cycle of program development for requests to private and corporate funders as well as local, state, and federal government agencies. She earned her B.A. in Art History from Columbia University and her Masters of Public Policy from the Harvard Kennedy School at Harvard University.

She lives in Brooklyn, NY with my husband and two sons. She’s a lifelong athlete who likes to run, practice yoga, hike, swim, and surf.

Christine's Website/Book

Artwork photo credit: Shelly Xu / @someshellyphotography

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In 2022 Jen and Eric bikepacked over 7000 km which included Grand Departs on the 4400 km Tour Divide and the 800 km  Log Driver’s Waltz (LDW), and a time trial on the North of Seven 770.  

In 2019 they were amongst the first few riders to complete the BT 700. They had such a positive experience following a well curated route that they decided to develop one of their own. Over the years they had completed many multi-day bike trips in the Lanark Highlands of Ontario and the Outaouais Region of Quebec. They knew they had the “knowledge of place” necessary to create a quality bikepacking route; one that would showcase the region, contribute to the growing bikepacking community, inject tourist dollars and foster connections between locals and riders. Importantly this would also be a challenging route that riders from Ontario, Quebec and New England could access without extensive travel. The result was the 800 km Log Driver’s Waltz which they released in 2020. 

In response to the requests of less experienced bikepackers they soon added ten shorter, more accessible routes. This has grown into a social project they call “bikepacking for all”. Through inclusive panel discussions, mechanics workshops,and rallies this project has continued to grow as more riders join the bikepacking community.

Jen and Eric believe there are hidden gems to be discovered in all localities and it is by creating well curated routes that bikepacking route developers can share this knowledge with riders from near and far.They can be reached via their website.

*Artwork photo credit: Louise Philopovich, Panorama Cycles https://www.panoramacycles.com/en/*

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Founded in 2009, HikeBikeTravel is your destination for information and stories on travel, adventure and the outdoors. From tried and true travel tips, to the latest and most innovative products on the market, to Leigh's most recent adventures, HikeBikeTravel is here to inspire you and challenge you to experience the world around you.

In addition Leigh is an award-winning photographer, author of Discover Canada: 100 Inspiring Outdoor Adventures and the co-author of 200 Nature Hot Spots in Alberta.

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He lives and plays outside in Aurora, Ontario with his wife, Paolina.

Steve's Twitter

Steve's Instagram

Steve's LinkedIn

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He has appeared in, hosted or produced more than 100 global television projects. He is an award-winning writer, film maker, and dad (no awards yet). His book on ice climbing is the top publication in its field, and has been translated into five languages. Gadd's presentations on "Risk and Reward" and related topics take him all over the world to speak to audiences ranging from Nike and Enbridge to at-risk youth .

He is a National Geographic " Adventurer of the Year" and recently became the first person to climb a frozen Niagara Falls. Last winter he used his ice climbing skills to find new life forms under a glacier, a world first, and just returned from a major TV production on the last ice in Africa. He is an ACMG guide, and uses way too much spice in his cooking.

https://willgadd.com

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About the Training Academy

The Training Academy has two levels of fully funded programming, that we are able to offer at no cost to our participants; the Foundations and Essentials level. Foundations offers 6 days of workshops with a strong focus on growing outdoor technical skills and building comfort in the outdoors. There is a 5 day outdoor journey option also. It truly is about creating access for groups and communities that have been traditionally under-represented. The Essentials program offers 10 days of workshops that focuses on a broad range of topics like mental health first aid, trauma informed outdoor leadership and more. It also provides four days of technical training at a basecamp workshop and a ten day outdoor journey. This level readies participants to enter the outdoor industry with the skills to work with the diverse and evolving needs of our population.

Diversity in the outdoors resources

Kasiama, Jusdith. “On diversity and healing in nature.” The Great Trail. January 30, 2020. 

Kelly, Ash. “The Adventure Gap: Why minorities are less likely to pursue outdoor recreation.” CBC. June 20, 2018.

Brean, Joseph. “Canada's 'adventure gap': Why it doesn't make sense for the great outdoors to be such a white space.” National Post. May 28, 2018.

Lockhart, Jessica Wynne. “How to help new Canadians access the great outdoors.” Cottage Life. September 22, 2017.

Moye, Jayme. “Jaylyn Gough Asks: Whose Land Are You Exploring?” Outside Online. May 31, 2018.

Kloos, Kassondra. “We Need More Women of Color Working in the Outdoors.” Outside Magazine. April 3, 2018.

Tariq, Ambreen. “I Would But: I Am The Only Person of Color.” REI Co-Op Journal. February 22, 2018.

Baker, Teresa. “Changing Faces of the Outdoors.” Alpinist. October 03, 2017.

Kefauver, Olivia. "Diversifying the Outdoors: Brown People Camping." Outdoor Women's Alliance. 2017. 

Haile, Rahawa. “Going It Alone.” Outside Magazine. April 11, 2017. 

Tariq, Ambreen. "My Immigrant Story: Loneliness and Empowerment at the American Campground." Outside Online. April 07, 2017. 

Scharper, Julie. "Nature Fix." National Parks Conservation Association. 2017. 

Berger, Erin. "To Diversify the Outdoors, We Have to Think About Who We're Excluding."Outside Online. November 20, 2016. 

Kloos, Kassondra. “We Need More Women of Color Working in the Outdoors.” Outside Magazine. April 3, 2018.

Rassler, Brad. “The Adventure Gap and Narratives of Inclusion: James Edward Mills talks about why the face of outdoor adventure must change.” Alpinist. December 21, 2016.

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Lhakpa was born in Nepal and grew up in the shadow of Mount Everest, so being a Sherpa is literally in her name and blood. In 2016, she was listed as one of BBC's 100 Women.

She runs a mountain climbing expedition company called Cloudscape Climbing, and is currently raising funds for her upcoming K2 expedition.

Lhakpa's Instagram

GoFundMe for Lhakpa's K2 expedition

Cloudscape Climbing

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She’s raced her mountain bike across the world in 25+ countries at the hardest endurance races in places like the Sahara Desert, Himalayas of Nepal, tropical jungles in Asia, steppes of Mongolia, and mountain ranges in Poland. 

Sonya is also interested in the integration of high performance and well-being through psychology, contemplative practices, and sport.

Sonya's Website

Listen to The Sonya Looney Show

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As a storm chaser and former wildland firefighter, some of the more memorable events he covered included wildfires, tornadoes, blizzards, high winds, and temperature extremes. 

He is passionate about weather forecasting, risk communication, and breaking down the science behind the weather.

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In 2014, while teaching a physical education class in Germany, a baseball hit Jill in the side of her head, leaving her with a traumatic brain injury (TBI) that took 70% of her vision and nearly her life. Before the accident, she was an athlete, teacher and coach who ran on trails, cycled and competed in duathlons.

“After 26 months in hospitals, I felt lost,” Jill told ParticipACTION. “I emerged from the hospital a completely different person from how I arrived. I lost my eyesight, autonomy, car, apartment, work and residency permit. But one aspect of my life that remained the same was my passion and desire to be outside with Mother Nature.”

Jill’s long road to recovery has brought her to peaks like K2 and the only Canadian female to summit 6 mountains above 8,000 metres.

She aims to break down the stigma associated with traumatic brain injury, vision loss, and eating disorders.

Check out her journey and story at https://mountainsofmymind.com.

Jill's Instagram

Vision 8000 GoFundMe

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Mercedes currently works in the winter at Whistler Blackcomb in the Ride with an Olympian Program. Mercedes is chair of the Canada Snowboard athlete’s council with a seat on the Canada Snowboard board and is also on the Canadian Olympic Committee Athletes Commission. 

In 2020 Mercedes launched, DROPPING IN a podcast with Mercedes Nicoll.

Mercedes Podcast

Mercedes Personal Instagram

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He raced bikes as a teen, until a big accident eventually led to him putting riding on hold.

A few years later he got back on the bike, and got the ‘’bug’’ again to be more serious about it and started a bike related blog. It is after a trip during covid that he realized that it would be great to talk about all his outdoor passions but with the perspective to inform the regular non-technical people. This is how Allday magazine was born. 

Almost 2 years later, 6 collaborators and over 160 published articles, Allday is a great worldwide reference for product reviews.

Allday magazine website

LCKD N LDED website

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Dawson is also the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) for Product Development at Deloitte Canada and a father of three. He believes in a balance between family, health, work and personal ambitions - and always focuses on the journey rather than the result.

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About the Canadian Ski Marathon:

The Canadian Ski Marathon (CSM) is North America’s oldest XC cross country ski event. It has been held the 2nd weekend of February since 1967 and takes place in the beautiful Outaouais region of Quebec, centered in Montebello. Skiers of all ages and abilities can register for a variety of categories allowing them to ski 1 to 5 sections ranging from 12 to 25 km each day on classic groomed trails through a breathtaking winter landscape. This 160 km linear trail is unique and is only used once each year in its entirety! The CSM is not a timed race, but a personal ski adventure set in some of Canada’s most picturesque countryside. No matter the challenge you set for yourself, you are sure to find a friendly smile, or words of encouragement on the trail, as well as a warm mug of honey water, and supportive volunteers at the next checkpoint. There is something for everyone at the CSM!

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Corinna’s interest in nutrition first began as a personal pursuit to improve her own health and performance as a multisport athlete at Virginia Tech. There she competed on the university’s club lacrosse and triathlon teams and received dual degrees in Nutrition, Food & Exercise and Spanish. After graduating, Corinna competed professionally in the sport of obstacle course racing for several years before pursuing a master’s degree in sports nutrition at the University of Utah and becoming a licensed dietitian. 

Corinna’s affinity for sport and competition has remained steadfast over the last 8 years (and counting!). During this time, she has podiumed at over 40 races including the Spartan Race World Championships and Obstacle Course Racing World Championships, she has competed at the CrossFit Games, won the Tough Mudder X Championships and Spartan Stadion Series and took second at the 2020 and 2021 Spartan Games. More recently, Corinna has been pursuing a new fitness venture called The Tactical Games, which is a combination of shooting and fitness.

Corinna owns her own remote coaching practice, RD Athlete Nutrition LLC and currently resides in Louisiana with her husband, Taylor.

Corinna's Coaching Website

Corinna's Instagram

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Ted’s love for the outdoors started at age 9 attending Camp Nominingue in the Laurentians (with ties to the legendary Jackrabbit Johannsen, who effectively introduced nordic skiing to North America). It was there, in cedar canvas canoes built onsite at the camp, that his passion for paddling first began.

One of his favourite quotes is Camp Nominingue’s motto, which is from Henry David Thoreau’s book, Walden, and it reads, “Rise free from care before the dawn, and seek adventure. Let the noon find thee by other lakes, and the night overtake thee everywhere at home."

As a father to 3 daughters, Ted has a passion for supporting women in sport. He served for years on the board of Fast & Female, Chandra Crawford’s not-for-profit, and moved over to the Nordiq Canada board where he now serves as the Chair since 2021.

Ted has also been participating in the Canadian Ski Marathon every year since 2018, including twice completing the Coureur de Bois Bronze (160km ski).

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Joanna is also an expert in glaciology who studies how Alaska’s glaciers are losing mass in climate change, and how that impacts communities downstream. Altogether, Joanna's work has the unifying goal of using research and education as vehicles for social justice and inclusion towards environmental sustainability.

Links:

https://joannayoung.mystrikingly.com/ (Personal)

https://uaf-iarc.org/?directory_entry=joanna-young (Research)

https://www.inspiringgirls.org/joanna-young (Inspiring Girls Expeditions)

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Michael founded Euro-Sports in 2004, after spending his youth working in outdoor stores in Huntsville and Ottawa, and his parent’s ski shop in Muskoka.

Euro-Sports is “your Multi-Sport Lifestyle Shop” where every staff member fully indulges in the outdoor lifestyle. From cycling and trail running in the summer, to cross-country skiing, ski-mo and running in the winter months, they have you covered for all seasons.

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You will only need one visit to see that the community is at the heart of this new adventure!

The NDP team offers you a community facility with a terrace, a self-service bike repair station and a cleaning station that will make your bike shine throughout the park! Finally, Nomades du Parc hopes to bring together all the outdoor enthusiasts who will pass through the Outaouais.

https://nomadesduparc.com

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Later, the she developed an appreciation for food that tells a story about the place it comes from. That passion for hyper-local food that evokes a multi-sensory experience is the driving force behind Sauvage, her restaurant in the mountain town of Canmore Alberta.

Sauvage

Chefs vs Wild

Canada's Great Kitchen Party

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She created The Consummate Athlete weekly podcast, website and book, Becoming A Consummate Athlete with her husband, cycling coach Peter Glassford. 

Molly is a little obsessed with getting people—especially women—psyched on adventure and being outside. That's why she created the Shred Girls, a young adult fiction series and online community focused on getting girls excited about bikes.

Additionally, she’s the author of multiple nonfiction books and writes regularly for publications including Bicycling magazine +Outside.

She regularly hosts talks and runs clinics for cyclists and teaches yoga online and IRL… And in her spare time, the former Ironman triathlete and cyclist now spends time racing ultra-runs on trails or can be found out hiking with her mini-dachshund DW.

Check out The Consummate Athlete website.

Find out more on Shred Girls.

Molly's Instagram.

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Their foody passion love of outdoor sports led them to create products that work great and taste great, starting in 2012 handing out XACT ENERGY fruit bars at a wind-swept mountain top feed station.

Lawrence grew up in Bristol, UK, settling in Montreal and heads up marketing and product development, with a passion for mountains and cooking.

Alister is from England, and now lives in Bromont Quebec, is a competitive runner, and has represented Canada in Mountain Running, has run his own speciality run store, and recently earned a diploma in sport nutrition.

Check out their website: https://www.xactnutrition.com

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Forest Play is grounded in the learning philosophies of Coyote Mentoring and Forest Schools and inspired by the understanding that stories, wilderness skills and sensory experiences in nature can help children and adults be more creative, resilient and emotionally intelligent. Dave also facilitates nature-based leadership programs for the Banff Centre and the Pacific Centre for Leadership and leads adult workshops for teachers and educators in Forest Play and nature - connection mentoring. 

He has a Master's Degree in Recreation Management, is an accredited Master Interpretive Guide a Wilderness First Responder and proud father of two wonderful daughters (ages 11 & 13).

Coyote’s Guide: http://coyotesguide.com/

Child and Nature Alliance Canada/Forest School Canada: https://childnature.ca/

Wilderness Awareness School: https://www.wildernessawareness.org/

Wisdom of the Earth (Salt Spring) and the Pine Project (Toronto) (these are really Canada’s versions of Wilderness Awareness School):

https://www.wisdomoftheearth.ca/

https://pineproject.org/

David Sobel: https://www.davidsobelauthor.com/nature-preschools-and-forest-kindergartens

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Just a few of Dr. Lem’s highlights include, she was the inaugural winner of University College’s Young Alumni of Influence Award at the University of Toronto, a 2020 Joule Innovation grant recipient from the Canadian Medical Association, a 2021 World Parks Week Ambassador.

We covered:

1. What is Park Prescriptions?
2. The biggest links between nature and its healing benefits.
3. What counts as “nature time”?
4. What would you recommend to the general population for getting outside?

www.parkprescriptions.ca

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Now, as Alberta program director for Y2Y, Hilary and her team work with governments and dozens of partners to protect key wildlife habitats along the western margin of the province. Their focus on headwaters regions, wildlife corridors, and highway crossings ensures that wide-ranging species like grizzly bears, wolves, and elk can move between and beyond protected areas. Central to Y2Y’s work is an equity- and justice-oriented lens so that the organization’s efforts benefit both nature and people along the Rocky Mountain front.

Hilary and her family spend much of their free time hiking, cycling, skiing and breathing deeply in the mountains.

Yellowstone to Yukon Website

Kawartha Land Trust

Cumberland Forest

Other sites that are great for understanding how to recreate in a low-impact, wildlife-aware way are:

https://leavenotrace.ca/ and https://www.biosphereinstitute.org/wildsmart.

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She started her career as a biologist focused on aquatic ecology, studying freshwater ecosystems and fisheries. She now works as an instructor in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Calgary where she teaches ecology courses.

Her connection with the outdoors guides both her research interests and her teaching approach. She encourages students to be curious about nature to help them develop their own research projects and their identity as scientists.

She spends most of her spare time outside, hiking, paddling, and backcountry skiing.

We talked about:

1) Teaching ecology at the University of Calgary, and her speciality in aquatic ecology.

2) Equity, diversity and inclusion in the outdoors.

3) How her connection with nature has motivated her to become a biologist.

Here’s the link to the Mountains 101 course from University of Alberta: https://www.ualberta.ca/admissions-programs/online-courses/mountains-101/index.html

This is a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC), they offer other courses of this type including a great one on Indigenous Canada: https://www.ualberta.ca/admissions-programs/online-courses/indigenous-canada/index.html.

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Alexis spent 11 years as CEO of Habitat for Humanity in Ottawa and Halifax. She holds a BComm in Finance, an MBA in International Development Management, and is a member of the Canadian Horticultural Therapy Association. She chairs the Canadian Garden Council’s Therapeutic Garden Invitations Task Force.

A passion for horticulture grew through volunteer engagements with Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF). She has lived and worked internationally, including Habitat for Humanity build projects in El Salvador and Ethiopia.

In her spare time Alexis enjoys staying active through tennis, cycling and yoga.

We talked about:

1) Root in Nature’s mission to bring the healing power of nature and plants to the community through horticultural therapy, nature-based programs and employee well-being.

2) Bringing more plants into your workplace and life.

3) Virtual and in-person workshops you can join.

Root in Nature Website

Root in Nature Instagram

Root in Nature Facebook

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Though Stephen is most proud of his children, his 4th child – the free fitness stuff – is definitely high up there. You can find him outdoors every month helping lead the Arboretum Hill Club (Friday 6:29am), Mill Street Milers (Run Hoppy!), Sunrise Trails (rise and shine) and Happiness Habits 613 Mindfulness Hikes (nature rocks).

In between all of this, Stephen can be found trail running in Gatineau Park and the NCC Greenbelt.

We talked about:

1) How to be a leader in community fitness and inspire others.

2) The most rewarding part of seeing others get outdoors and form connections.

3) How you can start a club in your community.

Links:

Ottawa Free Fitness Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ottfreefit/?hl=en

Ottawa Free Fitness Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ottfreefit

Stephen's personal Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bytownboy/?hl=en

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Ray calls the capital region home where you can see him training, playing and exploring in his own backyard.

We talked about…

• Living and playing in the National Capital Region
• Arctic vs Desert expeditions
• Transitioning from “pack-a-day smoker” to explorer
• Training with his family
• Bringing youth on adventures with Impossible2Possible

Ray's Website: https://www.rayzahab.com

impossible2Possible: https://www.impossible2possible.com

Kapik1: https://kapik1.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rayzahab/

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Some of Emily’s notable career moments include a 2x UCI GranFondo World Championship, Canadian Masters National Time Trial Championship, and 70.3 Ironman world qualifier. But along with her success in cycling/triathlon, came more than a few hardships.

These life-altering events made her a stronger, more resilient, more grounded, and more grateful athlete/person. She has taken a step back from racing at the professional level to pursue all the things that truly bring her joy.

We talked about:

• Transitioning from dental hygienist to elite athlete
• 2 x life-altering bike crashes
• Living with long-term brain injury symptoms
• Her documentary and upcoming doc on CBC
• Her new adventures in trail running

Website: https://emilysrodger.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/erodger/

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GirlGoneGood® is a main resource for trails, trail safety and inspiration for those who explore in Eastern Ontario. As a frequent wanderer and avid day hiker with over 20 yrs experience, Vickie’s resources are meant for you to experience the benefits of nature to its fullest, while engaging in safe and responsible recreation.

We talked about:

• How her “wanderer” spirit started with her mom
• Where to find resources for exploring in Eastern Ontario
• Info for new hikers
• Trail safety and protecting nature

Website: https://www.girlgonegood.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlgonegood/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GirlGoneGood/

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Katheryn is a road and trail running coach with M2M, coaching athletes locally in the Ottawa region, and remotely from all over the country. She co-leads a local, year round trail running group, Ottawa Trail Crew X M2M with her partner, Nat.

Outside of running, she can be found working as a Sports Massage Therapist and hanging out with her cat, Mr. Buchans.

We talked about: 

• Going to the Boston Marathon as a coach
• Growing up on the west coast of Newfoundland
• Winning the Quebec Megatrail
• Moving from triathlon to trail running

Follow Katheryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katheryncochrane/

Mile2Marathon: https://mile2marathon.com/coach/katheryn-cochrane-2/

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Gordon has his Master of Science in Leisure Studies (Arizona State University) and PHD in Forestry in Natural Resource Recreation (Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University). He has published over 90 refereed research articles and co-authored or co-edited three books including: A Social Psychology of Leisure. Much of this work involved individuals living in East Asia as well as those who emigrated from this area to North America. 

In retirement, Gordon’s goal has been to follow Michel de Montaigne’s advice and “…to live at more leisure and at one’s ease”.

He loves being outside and being on the water on his canoe. Please enjoy my chat with Gordon Walker.

Gordon and I chat about:

• Is nature needed as a basic psychological need?
• How social factors (gender, ethnicity, race, culture, social class, etc) affect our connection to nature
• How we can be more welcoming to others and bring people into the the outdoor space

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Lindsay recently started competing in trail running and Skyrunning, taking home 1st place at the US SkyRunning Championships.

She is thrilled to be representing Canada as her home country, she enjoys the Canadian winters with lots of cross-country skiing with her malamute, Suunto. When Lindsay isn’t training she spends time on her hobbies of small farming, photography, camping and baking from her home in Sutton, Quebec.

We covered:

• Her recent multiple medals at the Gatineau Loppet
• How we met on a mountain in Quebec
• Her love and support for other female athletes
• Her new adventures in Skyrunning 

Follow Lindsay's journey here: https://www.instagram.com/lindsaydawnwebster/

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Her love for the outdoors started young, with multi-day canoe trips with her family, to finding a love for mountain biking competitively. 

When she’s not rocking the trails, her empathy and compassion is shown through leadership at Oura Ring, the company behind the incredibly accurate sleep and activity tracker.

She now volunteers on the Trails and Active Transportation Committee in Collingwood to help spread the word of nature and activity.

We covered:

• Why mountain biking has her heart and her advocacy for women in the sport.
• What it’s like to work for a company that provides health data for athletes.
• Deep thoughts on the healing effects of playing outside.

Find her on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/tuesday_child/

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His first 50k trail race was love-at-first-suffering, and he’s been learning and improving since then, nabbing some podiums and top-fives (and a Fastest Known Time in the Peruvian Andes) at distances from 50k to 110k throughout Europe and the Americas. 

He continues to coach cross country skiing, and when he’s not running or skiing, you can find him on some sort of a bike!!

His unbridled joy for running and skiing is founded in a deep respect for the process of training properly and healthily.

Liam and I chat about:

• How much surroundings matter when it comes to being active
• The best places in the world to run
• How he channelled his energy into coaching and what it means to him
• What it feels like to break your ankle during a 100km trail run

Find out more about Liam and his coaching here:

Instagram - @liamonthetrail 

Mile2Marathon

RunTraverse 

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Ruby has represented Canada at five consecutive World Championships for cyclocross as well as banking many impressive results around North America and Europe in her still young career, including:

• Current U23 Pan American Champion
• Three Time U23 Canadian National Champion
• Represented Canada at Four Consecutive World Championships

In 2021, Ruby has committed to pursuing the track, after being recruited by the Canadian NextGen program, and has her sights on the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Off the bike Ruby keeps busy at her family farm looking after chickens, goats and a new donkey. Ruby has a great love and appreciation for anything outdoors and aims to do her part in minimising her footprint through sustainable swaps in her daily life.

We talked about:

• Cycling training in Spain
• How she got into cyclocross 
• Training for track cycling and the Olympics
• Her family farm and her daily connection to nature

Find Ruby on Instagram: @ruby__west

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Kelly Doell, Ph.D., is a mental performance consultant specialising in the mental side of active living. His passion isn building tools and teaching strategies that help people find their fit in fitness and maintain it for life. A former university lecturer, he holds a doctorate in population health, a master’s in sport, physical activity, & health intervention, and is a professional member of the Canadian Sport Psychology Association.

He also loves playing outside with sports like trail running and mountain biking. Anytime we hang out, it’s on trail. 

We discuss:

• How Kelly fell into the work he loves
• How to find the exercise that feels right for YOU
• Sharing the love of the outdoors with his daughter

Find Kelly on Instagram - @kelly.doell

Download Kelly’s book, Feel Like It on Audible now.

Listen to his podcast, Happily Ever Active.

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Adam is a professional explorer and national best-selling author of books like “Beyond the Trees” and The Whisper on the Night Wind”.

In 2013, he was elected a Fellow of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society for “extraordinary contributions to geography” and in 2017 completed a nearly 4,000 km solo journey across Canada’s Arctic.

A geographer and historian, he holds a Ph.D. from McMaster University, and in and in 2016 was named a national champion of the Trans-Canada Trail.

We discuss:

• The longest he's gone without human contact
• His earliest memories of nature
• What truly frightens him in the wild
• How he became a best-selling author
• Where to find hidden nature gems

Find his books and social media here: https://adamshoalts.com

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