Recounting the profound, yet tiny moments and details of everyday life in the backcountry, Justin joins us to discuss his time at Philmont Scout Ranch. As a participant and on staff, Justin spent a decade growing and giving in the High Country. Justin shares how he aspired to leadership positions in order to give back and share what he had learned in previous summers. On the tough days, Justin reminds us of the power of spending time with crews, and of the Ranch-wide aim of changing lives.

Justin, who has published two photography books related to Philmont - Wild and Untamed and Last Summer at Camp - dives into the phases of the creative process.  From the seemingly easy “cotton candy” images such as sunrise or sunset, to the quiet images that tell an unseen story, Justin brings us behind the scenes (the lens rather) of his photo narrative journeys. Leaving us with an encouraging note to “Go make the thing and inspire someone else to do the same,” listeners are reminded to resist silencing the creative abilities that lie within each of us. Thank you Justin for your words, images, and bursts of laughter.  Happy trails! 

Notable mentions:

• In 2002, Bob Mosher was the Roving Prospector.  Then in 2008, Ross Robinson held the position.  Were there others? Email [email protected] to let us know!
• Crooked Creek 2009 staff mentions: Rebekah "Boots" Uribe-Senter and Graham Nelson. 

Books mentioned:

Anthropocene by Edward Burtynsky

https://www.edwardburtynsky.com/projects/the-anthropocene-project

The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles by Steven Pressfield

https://www.amazon.com/War-Art-Steven-Pressfield-ebook/dp/B007A4SDCG

Wild & Untamed and Last Summer at Camp by Justin Kernes
https://www.justinkernes.com/

Participant Experience

2003, 2006, 2009 - Regular Treks

Staff Experience

2010 - PC Apache Springs

2011 - PC French Henry

2012 - PC Rich Cabins

2013 - PC Sawmill 

2014 - CD Zastrow

2015 - CD Harlan

2015 - Autumn, Villa Gardener 

2016 - CD Clarks Fork

2017 - CD Head of Dean 

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