Episode 1: the Bobby Miller Story: Paddling, Teaching, and Finding Purpose in the Flow

What drives someone to spend their life navigating whitewater? In this premiere episode of Following Waters, host Brett Mayer sits down with professional paddler, teacher, father, and outdoor educator Bobby Miller to explore that question from the inside out.

Bobby has been paddling Class V rivers for over two decades and is known for his smooth, powerful style on steep creeks and big water alike. But behind the drops and lines is a story about balance—between risk and responsibility, family and freedom, and adrenaline and awareness.

Together, Brett and Bobby dive into:

1. How Bobby got into paddling and what kept him in it
2. How he balances kayaking with parenting and teaching
3. The evolution of East Coast whitewater culture
4. What it means to live a full life on and off the river

Whether you're a paddler, parent, or just someone trying to live with purpose, this episode offers deep insight into how the river can shape who we become.

Connect with Bobby Miller

1. Dagger Kayaks Pro Team
2. Instagram @bobbymiller24

About Following Waters

Brett Mayer, creator, is a lifelong environmental educator, whitewater kayaker, and policy advocate with over two decades of experience on and off the river. He is the host of Following Waters, a podcast about the people, places, and stories that move us—through paddling and through life.

Brett has taught at leading independent schools across the country, including Hotchkiss, the Episcopal School in Alexandria, the Landon School for Boys, and currently Carolina Day School in Asheville, North Carolina. He owned and operated a paddling school and student travel company, and has spent years guiding young people into meaningful relationships with wild places.

As the Policy Director for the American Canoe Association, Brett represents the paddling community in partnership with Outdoor Alliance, working to protect access to public lands and waterways nationwide. His graduate thesis on why people paddle—based on interviews with elite Class V paddlers—revealed a simple truth: people stay on the water for friendship, stewardship, and purpose.

Through Following Waters, Brett shares the deep lessons the river teaches—about bravery, connection, and living an unconventional, wholehearted life.

This episode is brought to you by the American Canoe Association (ACA)

For over 140 years, the ACA has been supporting paddlers and protecting access to rivers, lakes, and coastlines across the country. Join the movement, take a course, or become a member at americancanoe.org.

Take advantage of a free kids membership with the purchase of a new adult membership during the month of July, 2025!