Episode 45: The Googans’ Return

The Norway Tetralogy comes to a close! Mike, GT, Poppy, and Caitlin reunite stateside to reflect on the trip of a lifetime, from puffins in Iceland to halibut in Sorøya. This episode ties it all together—what worked, what didn’t, what they’d do differently, and whether hauling fish halfway across the world was really worth it.

Highlights:

Iceland revisited – Puffins on the Westman Islands, tectonic plate hikes, secret lagoons, and a listener’s tip about farmhouse meals.

Oslo surprises – Poppy’s encyclopedic navigation skills, museum hopping (Fram, Kon-Tiki, Maritime, and Natural History), and thoughts on city life.

Tromsø tales – Cab rides, ice cream, late-night leg wrestling, and imagining a winter return for Northern Lights and dog sledding.

Fishing reflections – The guides at Camp Halibut, big halibut vs. big cod, wolf fish, and why musky fishing is the right comparison.

The great fish debate – The true cost (and stress) of bringing 80 pounds of fish home; was it worth it? Or would Whole Foods have been easier?

Family takeaways – Making memories with Robert, bonding with Neil, Nate, Zach, and Emmy, and why the people made the trip as special as the fish.

Looking forward – GT heads to Alaska, Caitlin preps for archery elk season, and the Outdoor Ruhls shift back into hunting mode.

Closing Thoughts:

Poppy: Fishing was the highlight.

GT: The realization that making more of these trips with family is the real prize.

Mike: Pride in Robert hauling up a redfish from 1,000 feet and gratitude for all the people who made the journey unforgettable.

Caitlin: Content to sit this one out, but already scheming future trips closer to home.

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