In a sudden turn of events just moments after our last update, the 13-day Telluride ski patrol strike has officially come to an end. We discuss the immense community pressure and local petitions that pushed both parties back to the table to save what remains of the winter season. While the patrollers didn’t get every demand met, the mountain is finally spinning again, bringing much-needed relief to the businesses and residents of Telluride and Mountain Village.

Overcoming Fear: Risk it for the Biscuit on the Slopes and in Life

In this “lift-ride-long” update, we dive into the unprecedented strike at Telluride where 78 ski patrollers have walked off the job, leading owner Chuck Horning to shutter the entire resort during the peak holiday season. We break down the core disputes—ranging from a $4-per-hour wage gap to critical needs for medical specialist pay—and the devastating economic ripple effects currently hitting the local community. Beyond the local fallout, this episode explores how the standoff in Telluride reflects a growing wave of unionization across mountain resorts and what it means for the future of the professional patrolling career path.

Overcoming Fear: Risk it for the Biscuit on the Slopes and in Life

This episode explores the concept of “Risk it for the Biscuit,” framing the motto as a way to overcome fear, especially in the context of skiing. The speaker discusses how the sport inherently involves a level of discomfort and innate fear when mastering new terrain or techniques, emphasizing that a little fear is a healthy sign of not being reckless. To tackle this, they advise starting small, seeking guidance from trusted, experienced friends or guides, and avoiding attempting challenges far beyond one’s current ability level. The conversation broadens to see this pattern of leaning into discomfort as a catalyst for growth in all aspects of life, fostering a drive to get better. Ultimately, the speaker highlights the incredible camaraderie and mutual respect found within the skiing community, where shared risks create a family-like bond.

Overcoming Fear: Risk it for the Biscuit on the Slopes and in Life

In this episode of Kickers at the Bottom, host Dave shares essential preparation and safety tips every parent needs for a smooth and secure chairlift experience with their children. Learn critical skills like sizing up the chair, positioning your kids safely on the inner seats, and the important “back to back” rule to prevent falls.

Dave covers best practices for the loading zone, including timing the lift and keeping your children close, and how to use ski poles as an extra restraint. Finally, get advice on common mistakes to avoid during the ride—like rocking the chair or having distractions—and how to execute a safe and quick unload. This is a must-listen refresher to make sure your family’s ski days start and end safely and enjoyably!

Overcoming Fear: Risk it for the Biscuit on the Slopes and in Life

In this inaugural “Sunday Fireside Session,” Dave recounts a defining emergency call that tested his training and changed his perspective. The high-stakes rescue involved an unconscious woman in her 40s who was found severely injured off-trail after a high-speed crash. He details the controlled response, the critical on-site care—including managing a combative patient with a severe head injury—and the successful hand-off to Life Flight. The episode explores the intense camaraderie of ski patrol and the guiding philosophy that dictates their professional actions: “Slow is smooth, and smooth is fast.”

Overcoming Fear: Risk it for the Biscuit on the Slopes and in Life

Thinking about hitting the slopes with your kids but feeling overwhelmed? This episode breaks down everything you need to know to make your family’s first ski day a success.

Drawing from years of ski patrol experience and raising a young skier, you’ll learn practical tips including: why buying used gear beats renting, how to prep your kids at home before ever reaching the mountain, essential chairlift safety (the “back to back” rule), when to skip the poles, and why keeping that first day short (1-3 hours max) saves everyone’s sanity.

Plus, discover why the post-ski hot chocolate tradition might be the most important part of the whole day. Whether your kid wants to bomb down the hill or take it slow with pizza wedges, this episode will help you create a fun, safe, and memorable skiing experience for your family.

Overcoming Fear: Risk it for the Biscuit on the Slopes and in Life

Ski Playlist: https://music.workhardbekind.com/share/FVuk2YsBl4

Time to get Tee’d Up! We dive into the ski patrol’s essential pre-season prep, covering the National Ski Patrol’s hands-on refresher cycles and hyper-local mountain training. The host shares his personal checklist for readiness: from stretching and climbing stairs to the ritual of waxing gear, checking P-TEX, and the absolute necessity of getting those ski boots professionally fitted.

Overcoming Fear: Risk it for the Biscuit on the Slopes and in Life

Episode 1: First Chair

Welcome to “Kicker’s at the Bottom”! In our very first episode, join us as we get ready for another day on the mountain. We’ll talk about those pre-dawn alarms, the essential gear checks, and the unique camaraderie that kicks off every patrol shift. Hear what it’s like to be the first one up the mountain, long before the public arrives. It’s the calm before the storm—and sometimes, the storm itself!

Overcoming Fear: Risk it for the Biscuit on the Slopes and in Life