In this episode of Following Waters, host Brett Mayer sits down with Steve “Steve-O” McKone, director of the Calleva River School in Poolesville, Maryland. Steve-O shares his journey from his first paddle on the George Washington Canal at 19, to becoming a lifelong paddler, teacher, and community builder.

Together, Brett and Steve explore:

1. The moment kayaking first captured Steve-O’s imagination and soul.
2. How Calleva River School cultivates grit, resilience, and confidence in paddlers of all ages.
3. Stories of challenge, growth, and joy that come from a life spent on the water.
4. Steve-O’s vision for building community and inspiring the next generation of paddlers in the D.C.–Maryland–Virginia region.
5. Reflections on why paddling is more than just sport—it’s a way of shaping life and meaning.

Brett also shares a personal update about returning from the Gauley River and dedicates this episode to the memory of paddler Pat Miljour.

Links & Resources

1. Calleva River School: calleva.org
2. Follow Following Waters on Apple Podcasts and Spotify
3. Learn more about Brett’s research: The Lived Experiences of Whitewater Kayakers: A Phenomenological Exploration

About the Podcast

Following Waters explores how rivers shape our lives and the stories we carry from them. Each episode, host Brett Mayer invites paddlers, educators, and river leaders to share authentic conversations about life on the water.