I Went to the Woods

Juneau resident Matt Boline and I discuss the life of a high school coach in Alaska, fishing tactics for steelhead and Trout Unlimited conservation projects in Southeast Alaska. 

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In this episode, Larry Jackson and I talk about growing up boating in the Alaskan wilderness. We discuss how seeing tragedies impacted our risk tolerance, the unpredictability of adventure and balancing thrill and caution in the face of the wild.

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In this episode, writer Katie Hill discusses the complexities of outdoor writing and content creation. We talk about the evolution of outdoor media in the past 30 years, the process behind crafting stories that resonate, and how the changing dynamics of media platforms like Substack are offering exciting new opportunities for writers. Katie shares her unique perspective on the current state of the outdoor and hunting communities, emphasizing the importance of bridging divides and fostering a sense of community among diverse audiences. 

In this episode, Mark Kenyon delves into his journey from high school senior to a successful outdoor enthusiast and entrepreneur. We discuss him leaving a job at Google to pursue Wired to Hunt, a platform that eventually became his career, and his book That Wild Country. Mark shares insights on making methodical life decisions, embracing challenges, and the importance of preserving nature for future generations.

In this episode, entrepreneur and author Danny Lehr and I discuss his first book Win Your Next Hour. We discuss high income skills, why it's important to have at least one, opportunities that come with seeking challenges, similarities between weightlifting, business, and the need for consistency and dedication across different life pursuits. Danny also talks about the importance of saying 'yes' to new experiences and how familial resilience has shaped personal endeavors. 

Abby and I discuss the impact of environment, family, and friends on educational experiences. We talk about the pressure of performing in a prestigious Boston suburb where Ivy League dreams are fostered and compare it to the close-knit, resourceful communities of Alaska.

We breakdown the need for balancing academic pursuits with practical skills and the importance of nurturing curiosity and creativity amidst societal pressures and distractions. 

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

In this episode Abby and I recap 2024 - skiing, camping, hiking and fishing in Juneau, fishing on Prince of Wales Island, hunting after Haleigh was born and what hunting tags we won't draw in 2025. 

In this episode, Seawind Aviation owner Steve Kamm shares his family's fishing history and how he found his true calling in the skies. Steve recounts his early days in Ketchikan, from carefree childhood memories of biking and baseball to the pivotal moments that steered him towards aviation. 

Steve also reflects on the past and present of Ketchikan's aviation industry, the evolving aviation landscape and the unique challenges and triumphs of running a flightseeing/charter service. 

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Adam Krick and Nathan Endicott share their August blacktail deer adventure in the wild alpine of Southeast Alaska. We discuss the three years of planning, the balance between chasing the thrill of the hunt and maintaining safety.

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.

Dave White is a retired commercial fisherman and teacher from Ketchikan. In this episode he recounts his early experiences as a novice commercial fisherman, navigating the obstacles of gillnetting and longlining. We also discuss the hardships of being in the classroom for five days then on the water for two during the edges of the school year. 

Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.