Polar explorer and expedition guide Eric Larsen isn’t one to shy away from the cold. Having completed more North and South Pole expeditions than any other American in history, it’s safe to say he thrives in below freezing temperatures. From being a park ranger in Alaska to a sled dog herder in Minnesota, Eric’s spent his life in the cold and his story has become the subject to several documentaries. Traveling in such extreme environments comes with no shortage of challenges or close encounters with wildlife. In fact, on this episode of the Cripescast, Eric shares stories of both including being chased by a moose and being stalked by a polar bear. He and Charlie bond over what it was like growing up in Wisconsin, their first jobs as bike mechanics, and their shared passion for preserving the outdoors.

Follow Eric on Instagram at @elexplores and book a trip with him to explore the North Pole at ericlarsenexplore.com.

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Find the Cripescast on all platforms @cripescast and Charlie @charlieberens. For live show tickets, merch, comments and more head to cripescast.com.