The Dubcast With Dubside

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In this episode of The Dubcast with Dubside, Andrew sits down with Paul Steinberg and Noy Davis, coordinators of the South Sound Traditional Inuit Kayaking Symposium—better known as SSTIKS. After a five-year hiatus, SSTIKS is back, and Paul and Noy share what it’s taken to bring this beloved gathering of Greenland-style paddlers back to life. They talk about the history of the event, the joys and challenges of rope gymnastics, why kids make the best rope rollers, and the rich community of kayak builders, rollers, and storytellers that have kept the tradition alive in the Pacific Northwest. With reflections on mentors, DIY kayaks, and Deadfish Polo, this episode is both a tribute and a rallying cry for the next generation of traditional paddlers.

LINKS:

South Sound Traditional Inuit Kayaking Symposium (SSTIKS)

Palo’s Wedding

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GOFUNDME: Stories from the Arctic: Help Dubside Return to Greenland

In this episode of The Dubcast with Dubside, Dubside explores Greenland’s evolving path toward independence. Drawing from his personal experiences visiting Greenland over several years, he offers a thoughtful perspective on the island’s complex relationship with the United States—from WWII and the Cold War to the present day.

Dubside dives into the fascinating and often surprising history of Greenland–U.S. relations, discusses the economic and political obstacles Greenland faces in achieving full sovereignty, and explains why, today, Greenland and the U.S. are closer than ever. An insightful, personal look at a country on the brink of transformation.

LINKS:

SSTIKS: The South Sound Traditional Inuit Kayak Symposium

TRAQS: Traditional Qajaqers of the South

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GOFUNDME: Stories from the Arctic: Help Dubside Return to Greenland

In this episode of The Dubcast with Dubside, Dubside sits down for a conversation with Max at the 2024 Greenland National Qajaq Championship in Qaqortoq. Listeners may remember Max from our April 23, 2022 interview with Brian Schulz, who raised over $16,000 to bring Max and his students to the championships.

Originally from France, Max moved to the tiny, remote village of Tiniteqilaaq in East Greenland to learn firsthand how the Greenlanders lived—immersing himself in traditional practices like hunting, dog sledding, and kayaking. He has lived there ever since and now serves as the headmaster of the local school, where he passes on traditional kayaking knowledge to the next generation.

In this conversation, Max reflects on how East Greenlanders adapt to scarcity by building kayaks with whatever materials are available, and how he learned traditional techniques in the most unexpected ways—through Chris Cunningham’s book Building the Greenland Kayak, YouTube videos, Brian Schulz’s tutorials, and in-person instruction from Eichi Ito in Japan.

Now a bridge between generations, Max is inspiring his village’s youth to embrace kayaking from an early age and helping to keep Greenland’s qajaq heritage alive.

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CLICK HERE TO HELP DUBSIDE RETURN TO GREENLAND!

In this episode of The Dubcast with Dubside, Dubside shares stories and reflections on his recent encounters with the charismatic Jens Peter Kielsen, professional hunter, fisherman, founder of Qajaq Qaqortoq, and member of the Vilhelm Lynge Choir. Previously featured in Dubcast #20 (“The Narwhal Tusk Polar Bear Head Necklace”), Jens continues to be a fascinating figure in Greenland’s traditional kayaking and cultural landscape.

Dubside recounts Jens’ presence as the honored guest at the 2024 Greenland National Qajaq Championships dinner and explores the significance of Greenlandic choral singing as both a beloved leisure activity and a deep expression of national identity.

The episode also touches on new discoveries related to the elusive high-speed paddling technique known as kussarsarluni paarneq, including surprising details about how kayak design may have played a role in its effectiveness. A thoughtful and engaging look into the people, culture, and traditions of Greenland.

LINKS:

GOFUNDME: Stories from the Arctic: Help Dubside Return to Greenland

Hunter’s Eye in South Greenland, experienced local trophy hunting and fishing guide offering a wide range of trophy hunting, fishing and sightseeing tours in southern part of Greenland. 

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HELP DUBSIDE RETURN TO GREENLAND!

In this episode of The Dubcast with Dubside, Dubside travels to Copenhagen for Greenland in Tivoli, the largest Greenlandic cultural event outside of Greenland. Held annually in the iconic Tivoli Gardens, this vibrant festival brings together Greenlandic musicians, artists, designers, and performers to showcase the rich traditions and evolving culture of Greenland.

Dubside dives into the heart of the festivities, attending concerts, talking with Greenlandic musicians, and soaking in the unique fusion of ancient traditions and modern Arctic life. Along the way, he searches for familiar faces, including Ole Paulson, the crusty old photographer he last encountered in Qaqortoq.

Join us as we explore how Greenland’s culture comes to life in the heart of Copenhagen, offering a rare opportunity to experience the spirit of the Arctic far from its icy shores.

Kaar! by DDR

Pop Uummataaruffimmi by Ole Kristiansen

GOFUNDME: Stories from the Arctic: Help Dubside Return to Greenland

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HELP DUBSIDE RETURN TO GREENLAND!

Nuuk is changing fast, and in this episode of The Dubcast with Dubside, Dubside arrives from Qaqortoq to see the transformation firsthand. With the new airport bringing waves of development, he explores how locals are seizing new opportunities—like the creators of Bolt Lamar, Greenland’s hottest clothing brand. He also meets Ungaaq Tobiassen and his 13-year-old son Ivik, a fierce young competitor in the world of traditional kayaking. While searching for the American consulate, Dubside finds himself immersed in the rhythm of the city, ending his day singing and playing music with locals. From kayaking to culture to business, this episode captures a changing Nuuk, where past and future meet in surprising ways.

LINKS:

Bolt Lamar on Instagram

GOFUNDME: Stories from the Arctic: Help Dubside Return to Greenland

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In this installment of The Dubcast with Dubside, Dubside jets off to Sweden to sit down with Johan Wirsen, the visionary behind the Ilaga—the original Tahe Greenland kayak. Discover how a serendipitous encounter with an old skin-on-frame kayak in a barn sparked Johan’s lifelong passion, leading him to pursue formal boatbuilding training in Gothenburg. In the interview, Johan dives deep into his design philosophy and the intricate challenges of transforming initial sketches into a finished product—from lofting and building a plug to navigating the complexities of commercial production. Tune in for an inspiring look at innovation, craftsmanship, and the art of kayak design.

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In this episode, Dubside sits down with Sepanta, a traditional kayaker and ESG consultant living in the remote village of Kulusuk, East Greenland. Sepanta shares her experiences navigating life in one of the world’s most breathtaking and extreme environments, from paddling among whales to the challenges of the high cost of living. Having previously spent a year at a scientific outpost in Antarctica, she brings a unique perspective on polar living, sustainability, and the rapid changes shaping Greenland’s future. As the world turns its attention to Greenland’s mineral wealth and adventure tourism grows, Sepanta discusses the delicate balance between economic development and environmental preservation. Tune in for an insightful conversation about life on the edge of the Arctic and the future of Greenland in a changing world.

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IN THIS EPISODE:

Dubside's journey through Greenland leads to a poignant meeting with the son and daughter of legendary seal hunter Efraim Adolfson, first introduced in Episode #56. Dubside shares the story of his encounter with Efraim years earlier and the long journey to translate his recorded interview, conducted in Greenlandic. The conversation is warm and reflective, as the siblings reminisce about their father’s life, his magnetic personality, and the packed funeral that spoke to his profound impact on the community. This episode captures a touching celebration of memory, legacy, and the enduring ties of family.

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International sea kayaking coach James Manke discusses his inspiring journey from Ucluelet, where he transformed a dilapidated historic building into a kayak museum and workshop, to Costa Rica, where he plans to create a kayak retreat near world-class surf breaks. He opens up about his collaboration with Japanese traditional sea kayaker Eichi Ito to teach Greenland rolling techniques around the world, and how dedication, passion, and an unshakable belief in one's abilities can turn dreams into reality.

LINKS:

Stay Salty World Tour