I Went to the Woods

Abby and I recap 2023. We talk about finishing the house, building the greenhouse, planting seeds, fishing, hunting, gear and what we're looking forward to in 2024. 

In this episode I look back at the best stuff from 2023 - gear, podcasts, packs, books and films. 

Harrison Gottschling and I discuss trapping, mining, sustainability and the Alaska draw which closes Dec. 15. 

Jen Loofbourrow is founder of Alpine Fit, a gear brand based in Anchorage. In this episode we talk about the technology behind (and development of) good gear, kayak adventures, skiing and the importance of finding active groups to make winter fun.

Originally aired Feb 6, 2023

Jayleen Bydlon is the owner of Jayleen's Alaska which provides private whale watching tours in Juneau, Alaska. Jayleen is a lifelong resident of Juneau and started the business when she was 22-years old. In this episode we talk about business models, marketing, the tourism industry, whale attitudes and how to make it through winter.

DJ Hansen is a life-long resident of Craig, Alaska, and owner of DJ's Alaska Adventure Rentals. In this episode we talk about growing up on Prince of Wales Island, coaching basketball, the importance of a tight-knit community and how economic opportunities have changed since we were in high school.

Chris Alderman is co-owner (along with his wife) of Screaming Eagle Archery in Wasilla and Fairbanks. In this episode we talk about what you need to get started in archery, upgrades, and details about hunting moose with a bow. We also discuss caribou archery hunts and the need to be able to mentally adjust to Plans C-Z.

Meta Mesdag is a photographer turned oyster farmer (Salty Lady Seafoods) in Juneau. In this episode we talk about her career transition, the entrepreneurship scene in Southeast Alaska, challenges brought on by Covid and bad weather, the science behind the life cycle and growing conditions or oysters.

Alaska Fly Fishing Goods owner Brad Elfers joins me to talk all things fly fishing in Alaska. We discuss fishing opportunities in Juneau, dissect the Kenai and Kasilof rivers, fishing with mouse patterns, steelhead flies, regionally effective flies and industry improvements in rods, reels and waders.

Road bike or urban bike? Mountain bike with full suspension or a hard tail? In this episode I talk with Cycle Alaska co-owner John McConnochie about the biking culture in Juneau, owning a shop, his favorite trails, selecting the style of bike that best fits your lifestyle, and how to then choose the bike that's right for you.