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Are you giving your kids a memorable enough summer? If that question makes you feel guilty or overwhelmed, this episode is for you.

Nicole welcomes back sisters, moms and Iksplor founders Kailey and Karissa for an honest conversation about summer mom guilt, raising outdoor kids and learning to embrace the season your family is actually in—not the one you planned.

The conversation was inspired by a message they shared with the Iksplor community:

“Some summers are big adventures. Some are sprinklers on the trampoline in the backyard. Whatever your summer looks like right now, you’re doing enough.”

In this episode:

• Letting go of summer mom guilt
• Raising outdoor kids without forcing big adventures
• Why Nicole rejects the “18 summers” mentality
• Low-effort ways to get children outside
• Balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship
• New products and sustainable initiatives at Iksplor
• Why you—and the summer you’re creating—are enough

Kailey and Karissa first joined us in February 2024 to share the Iksplor founder story and explain why merino wool is ideal for active families.

→ Listen to their first Ski Moms Podcast episode

→ Learn more about Iksplor

If this message resonates, share the episode with another mom who needs to hear it.

Don't miss the Annual Tent Sale, happening August 7th through 9th at the Woburn store only. The sale kicks off Friday at 5 p.m. and continues all weekend, just in time for Massachusetts Tax-Free Weekend.

Stop by Salem, Woburn, or Framingham, and head to skihaus.com to check store hours and get exact locations.

Register by August 15, 2026, and use code SKIMOMSRETREAT to save $100 on your trip.

Visit www.theskimoms.co/events to see the 2027 lineup and reserve your spot.

Get the best gear recommendations and trip-planning tips directly to your inbox. Head to skimom.substack.com to subscribe. Join for free—or upgrade for all the premium perks. 

Premium subscriptions start at just $5 a month and get to listen ad-free and unlock exclusive content, including insider travel guides, packing lists and more. 

Support the show

Keep up with the Latest from the Ski Moms!
Website: www.theskimoms.co
Ski Moms Discount Page: https://www.theskimoms.co/discounts
Ski Moms Ski Rental Homes
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theskimoms/

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Season 6 begins with one of my favorite conversations yet.

This week, I'm joined by a favorite travel partner—my daughter, Chiara.

At 21 years old, she's old enough to look back on a childhood filled with ski racing, family ski trips, endless weekends in the mountains, and now our annual mother-daughter adventures exploring America's national parks.

Like so many moms, I've spent years packing the car, replacing outgrown ski boots, planning trips, and wondering if my kids would someday appreciate all the effort that goes into creating these experiences.

In this conversation, I finally get my answer.

We talk about what it was really like growing up skiing, the lessons ski racing taught her about resilience and hard work, and why she still chooses to travel with me as a young adult. We also share highlights from our recent trip to Acadia National Park, including favorite hikes, biking the famous carriage roads, where we stayed, and the small traditions that make our adventures so memorable. And this is the bag we mention.

If you're spending your weekends driving to ski races, hauling gear, convincing little legs to keep hiking, or wondering whether all this effort is making a difference, I hope this conversation reminds you that it is.

The memories you're creating today don't end when your kids turn 18.

Don't miss the Annual Tent Sale, happening August 7th through 9th at the Woburn store only. The sale kicks off Friday at 5 p.m. and continues all weekend, just in time for Massachusetts Tax-Free Weekend.

Stop by Salem, Woburn, or Framingham, and head to skihaus.com to check store hours and get exact locations.

Register by August 15, 2026, and use code SKIMOMSRETREAT to save $100 on your trip.

Visit www.theskimoms.co/events to see the 2027 lineup and reserve your spot.

Get the best gear recommendations and trip-planning tips directly to your inbox. Head to skimom.substack.com to subscribe. Join for free—or upgrade for all the premium perks. 

Premium subscriptions start at just $5 a month and get to listen ad-free and unlock exclusive content, including insider travel guides, packing lists and more. 

Support the show

Keep up with the Latest from the Ski Moms!
Website: www.theskimoms.co
Ski Moms Discount Page: https://www.theskimoms.co/discounts
Ski Moms Ski Rental Homes
Join the 13,000+ Ski Moms Facebook Group
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theskimoms/

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In this episode, the Ski Moms welcome Kristin Hurd and Karen Musgrave, Canadian ski instructors and co-creators of the Divine ARCS Affirmation Cards, a 31-card deck designed to help skiers connect with the mental and emotional side of the sport. Based at Silver Star Mountain Resort in Vernon, B.C., Kristin (originally from Australia, CSIA Level 4) and Karen (from Southern California, who became an instructor at 40 and earned her Level 3) met during their certification journey and have been collaborating ever since.

The conversation covers their CSIA certification paths, their new "Divine Arc Ski Experience" camps for women, their Kids Mountain Magic book, and practical mindful skiing tips, including Karen's "Superman pose" for overcoming fear. They also share a full destination guide to Silver Star, from travel logistics and lodging to dining, kids' programming, and après ski in the Okanagan Valley.

Resources:

Divine ARCS Affirmation Cards: https://divinearcs.com

Silver Star Mountain Resort: https://www.skisilverstar.com

Book Lessons at Silver Star: Visit the Silver Star website lessons page or email the ski school to request Kristin Hurd or Karen Musgrave (specify last name "M" for Karen)

Key Quotes:

"Breathe in my strength, breathe out the fear. Just coming back into my breath. When I get out of my own way and come into the present moment, my skiing gets way better." — Karen Musgrave

"The snow is your canvas — paint your picture." — Karen Musgrave

Don't miss the Annual Tent Sale, happening August 7th through 9th at the Woburn store only. The sale kicks off Friday at 5 p.m. and continues all weekend, just in time for Massachusetts Tax-Free Weekend.

Stop by Salem, Woburn, or Framingham, and head to skihaus.com to check store hours and get exact locations.

Register by August 15, 2026, and use code SKIMOMSRETREAT to save $100 on your trip.

Visit www.theskimoms.co/events to see the 2027 lineup and reserve your spot.

Get the best gear recommendations and trip-planning tips directly to your inbox. Head to skimom.substack.com to subscribe. Join for free—or upgrade for all the premium perks. 

Premium subscriptions start at just $5 a month and get to listen ad-free and unlock exclusive content, including insider travel guides, packing lists and more. 

Support the show

Keep up with the Latest from the Ski Moms!
Website: www.theskimoms.co
Ski Moms Discount Page: https://www.theskimoms.co/discounts
Ski Moms Ski Rental Homes
Join the 13,000+ Ski Moms Facebook Group
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theskimoms/

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Summer camp season is here, and if your kid lives for mountain biking, skiing, skateboarding, scooters, or just nonstop outdoor adventure, this episode is for you. We’re diving into all things Woodward — the legendary action sports camp that’s helping kids build confidence, resilience, independence, and skills both on and off the bike.

Ski Moms listeners can save $150 off Summer 2026 camp using code SKIMOMS at checkout:
 www.woodwardpa.com/summer-camps/mountain-bike/

This summer, Woodward PA is launching an incredible new mountain bike program featuring flow trails, technical terrain, progression coaching, and a seriously fun camp experience designed for every level of rider. Whether your camper is brand new to biking or already sending jumps, Woodward creates an environment where kids can challenge themselves safely while making friends and unforgettable memories along the way.

Don't miss the Annual Tent Sale, happening August 7th through 9th at the Woburn store only. The sale kicks off Friday at 5 p.m. and continues all weekend, just in time for Massachusetts Tax-Free Weekend.

Stop by Salem, Woburn, or Framingham, and head to skihaus.com to check store hours and get exact locations.

Register by August 15, 2026, and use code SKIMOMSRETREAT to save $100 on your trip.

Visit www.theskimoms.co/events to see the 2027 lineup and reserve your spot.

Get the best gear recommendations and trip-planning tips directly to your inbox. Head to skimom.substack.com to subscribe. Join for free—or upgrade for all the premium perks. 

Premium subscriptions start at just $5 a month and get to listen ad-free and unlock exclusive content, including insider travel guides, packing lists and more. 

Support the show

Keep up with the Latest from the Ski Moms!
Website: www.theskimoms.co
Ski Moms Discount Page: https://www.theskimoms.co/discounts
Ski Moms Ski Rental Homes
Join the 13,000+ Ski Moms Facebook Group
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theskimoms/

Send us an email and let us know what guests and topics you’d like to hear next!
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Inside the Portillo, Chile ski experience—from daily life and family-friendly lodging to what makes this independent resort so unique.

And for our Ski Moms community, there’s a little added bonus:

Enjoy 10% off your stay for bookings between June 20 and August 1 by emailing [email protected] and mentioning SKIMOMS.

Last week, we covered how to plan a trip to Portillo. In this episode, we’re getting to the heart of it: what makes this iconic Chilean ski resort feel so different once you arrive.

We’re joined by Ellen Guidara, who serves on the board of Portillo and previously led its marketing. From arriving as a young ski instructor after Middlebury to returning after an 11-year career at Disney, Ellen brings a rare, personal perspective on the resort’s evolution and enduring magic.

Recorded over tea at Portillo, this conversation explores the rhythm, traditions, and intentional choices that define the experience—from shared tables and afternoon tea to remaining independent in a world of mega passes.

If you’re curious about what keeps families coming back year after year, this episode brings that feeling to life.

In This Episode:

•  Why Portillo has stayed independent (no Epic or Ikon) 
•  The all-inclusive rhythm that makes the week feel effortless 
•  How shared meals and traditions create real community 
•  Family weeks vs. August’s more social energy 
•  The realities of running a remote ski resort in the Andes 

Planning a Trip?

We’re partnering with Portillo this month to share more tips, guides, and behind-the-scenes.

Follow along on Instagram @theskimoms and subscribe to the newsletter for more.

Don't miss the Annual Tent Sale, happening August 7th through 9th at the Woburn store only. The sale kicks off Friday at 5 p.m. and continues all weekend, just in time for Massachusetts Tax-Free Weekend.

Stop by Salem, Woburn, or Framingham, and head to skihaus.com to check store hours and get exact locations.

Register by August 15, 2026, and use code SKIMOMSRETREAT to save $100 on your trip.

Visit www.theskimoms.co/events to see the 2027 lineup and reserve your spot.

Get the best gear recommendations and trip-planning tips directly to your inbox. Head to skimom.substack.com to subscribe. Join for free—or upgrade for all the premium perks. 

Premium subscriptions start at just $5 a month and get to listen ad-free and unlock exclusive content, including insider travel guides, packing lists and more. 

Support the show

Keep up with the Latest from the Ski Moms!
Website: www.theskimoms.co
Ski Moms Discount Page: https://www.theskimoms.co/discounts
Ski Moms Ski Rental Homes
Join the 13,000+ Ski Moms Facebook Group
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theskimoms/

Send us an email and let us know what guests and topics you’d like to hear next!
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If a summer ski trip has ever been on your list, this is your sign to seriously consider Portillo, Chile.

In this episode, we’re breaking down everything you need to know to plan a Portillo summer ski trip—from when to go (their season kicks off June 20), to how the all-inclusive, ski-in/ski-out experience works, to why it’s one of the easiest international ski trips you can do with kids.

We talk through what makes Portillo so unique (think: no crowds, stunning Andes views, and a true unplugged feel), what a typical day looks like, and how to decide if it’s the right fit for your family—or for a moms’ getaway.

And for our Ski Moms community, there’s a special perk: you’ll receive 10% off your stay for bookings between June 20 and August 1. Just email [email protected]
and mention SKIMOMS to access the savings.

If you’ve been craving a ski trip that feels a little more special—and a lot more memorable—this is one to consider.

Don't miss the Annual Tent Sale, happening August 7th through 9th at the Woburn store only. The sale kicks off Friday at 5 p.m. and continues all weekend, just in time for Massachusetts Tax-Free Weekend.

Stop by Salem, Woburn, or Framingham, and head to skihaus.com to check store hours and get exact locations.

Register by August 15, 2026, and use code SKIMOMSRETREAT to save $100 on your trip.

Visit www.theskimoms.co/events to see the 2027 lineup and reserve your spot.

Get the best gear recommendations and trip-planning tips directly to your inbox. Head to skimom.substack.com to subscribe. Join for free—or upgrade for all the premium perks. 

Premium subscriptions start at just $5 a month and get to listen ad-free and unlock exclusive content, including insider travel guides, packing lists and more. 

Support the show

Keep up with the Latest from the Ski Moms!
Website: www.theskimoms.co
Ski Moms Discount Page: https://www.theskimoms.co/discounts
Ski Moms Ski Rental Homes
Join the 13,000+ Ski Moms Facebook Group
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theskimoms/

Send us an email and let us know what guests and topics you’d like to hear next!
[email protected]
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In this episode The Ski Moms welcome Sage McCririck, marketing and events manager at Loveland Ski Area in Colorado, as the resort approaches its 90th anniversary. Sage shares her three-generation family connection to the mountain, where her father, ski photographer Flip McCririck , taught her to ski and she now teaches her own daughter. Located just 52 miles from Denver, Loveland offers two base areas: the Basin with challenging Continental Divide terrain, and the Valley with beginner slopes and affordable $50 adult/$30 kids tickets. This independent, family-owned resort prioritizes accessibility with dynamic pricing, Indy Pass partnership, and creative packages. Sage shares insider tips including the convenient Valley base area, unique on-mountain BBQ grills, and special events like the 35th annual Mountaintop Matrimony on Valentine's Day and live music every weekend March through May. April is the sweet spot for visiting with fresh snow, sunshine, live music, and lower prices after April 6th. Loveland maintains its old-school community vibe while offering over six months of quality skiing from early November through early May.

Resources: 

• Loveland Website  Loveland on Facebook Loveland Instagram
• Location: 52 miles from Denver, right off I-70
• Base Areas: Loveland Basin (main terrain) and Loveland Valley (beginner/family area)
• Nearby Lodging: Georgetown, Silverthorne, Dillon, Keystone, Frisco, Breckenridge
• Season: Early November through early May

"The first thing that comes to mind is old school, but that's really just because the community feel reminds me of what growing up in the ski industry really felt like. A lot of smiling, friendly faces that know each other, a lot of people coming back year after year, families that have raised their kids here."

"April is definitely my favorite month. You get the best of all the worlds. You usually get fresh snow, you usually get sunshine. You get the live music on the patio. Get the full experience."

"We, through and through want everybody to be able to love this sport. And we want everybody to feel like they're able to participate in this sport."

Don't miss the Annual Tent Sale, happening August 7th through 9th at the Woburn store only. The sale kicks off Friday at 5 p.m. and continues all weekend, just in time for Massachusetts Tax-Free Weekend.

Stop by Salem, Woburn, or Framingham, and head to skihaus.com to check store hours and get exact locations.

Register by August 15, 2026, and use code SKIMOMSRETREAT to save $100 on your trip.

Visit www.theskimoms.co/events to see the 2027 lineup and reserve your spot.

Get the best gear recommendations and trip-planning tips directly to your inbox. Head to skimom.substack.com to subscribe. Join for free—or upgrade for all the premium perks. 

Premium subscriptions start at just $5 a month and get to listen ad-free and unlock exclusive content, including insider travel guides, packing lists and more. 

Support the show

Keep up with the Latest from the Ski Moms!
Website: www.theskimoms.co
Ski Moms Discount Page: https://www.theskimoms.co/discounts
Ski Moms Ski Rental Homes
Join the 13,000+ Ski Moms Facebook Group
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theskimoms/

Send us an email and let us know what guests and topics you’d like to hear next!
[email protected]
[email protected]

Send us Fan Mail

The Ski Moms welcome back Kendra Scurfield (Chief Marketing Officer at Banff Sunshine Village, author, and mom) to share why spring skiing in Banff is a hidden gem for families. They explore what sets Sunshine Village apart—from its high elevation and consistent late-season snowfall to its sunny, celebratory spring atmosphere with longer days, soft snow, and lively après.

The conversation covers practical planning tips, including flying into Calgary, choosing between staying in Banff or at the ski-in/ski-out Sunshine Mountain Lodge, and how to prepare for spring conditions with smart layering, extra gear for kids, hydration, and sun protection.

Kendra also explains why spring is ideal for progression, with softer snow and warmer temps helping both kids and adults build confidence. They highlight family-friendly terrain, childcare and lessons starting at 18 months, and opportunities for moms to push their own skiing—from groomers to more advanced terrain.

Off the slopes, they share what makes spring at Sunshine so fun, from outdoor dining and ski boot dance parties to themed weekends and the iconic Slush Cup. This episode is full of inspiration and practical advice for families looking to extend their ski season and embrace the ease and joy of spring skiing in the Canadian Rockies.

Resources:

Instagram: @kendrasonia

www.skibanff.com

www.skibig3.com

Previous episode: Season 4 Episode 29 

Don't miss the Annual Tent Sale, happening August 7th through 9th at the Woburn store only. The sale kicks off Friday at 5 p.m. and continues all weekend, just in time for Massachusetts Tax-Free Weekend.

Stop by Salem, Woburn, or Framingham, and head to skihaus.com to check store hours and get exact locations.

Register by August 15, 2026, and use code SKIMOMSRETREAT to save $100 on your trip.

Visit www.theskimoms.co/events to see the 2027 lineup and reserve your spot.

Get the best gear recommendations and trip-planning tips directly to your inbox. Head to skimom.substack.com to subscribe. Join for free—or upgrade for all the premium perks. 

Premium subscriptions start at just $5 a month and get to listen ad-free and unlock exclusive content, including insider travel guides, packing lists and more. 

Support the show

Keep up with the Latest from the Ski Moms!
Website: www.theskimoms.co
Ski Moms Discount Page: https://www.theskimoms.co/discounts
Ski Moms Ski Rental Homes
Join the 13,000+ Ski Moms Facebook Group
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theskimoms/

Send us an email and let us know what guests and topics you’d like to hear next!
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The Ski Moms celebrate Crystal Mountain's 70th anniversary with Karen Thor (COO, 32 years at the resort) and Brittany Primeau (Director of Communications and new mom). They explore Crystal's evolution from Buck Hills community ski area to today's master-planned four-season resort village with 1,500 acres. Karen and Brittany share their ski origin stories and discuss the family-owned Petritz legacy that created a destination where families can park once and access everything on foot or by shuttle, from ski-in/ski-out accommodations to the LEED-certified spa. 

The conversation covers practical planning tips including getting fitted for rentals the night before, booking lessons for ages 3 to "retired, not tired," and using the Nanny McSki program for full-day childcare on the slopes. Crystal features terrain for all levels with magic carpets, a backyard teaching area, and night skiing Tuesday through Saturday. Beyond winter, they highlight year-round activities including two championship golf courses (home to the Michigan Women's Open for 20+ years), the Crystal Coaster Alpine Slide (Michigan's only alpine slide), Michigan Legacy Art Park, and the resort's role as a base camp for exploring Northern Michigan attractions like Sleeping Bear Dunes and Traverse City.

Resources:

• Website: www.crystalmountain.com
• Location: Thompsonville, Benzie County, Northern Michigan
• Season: Thanksgiving weekend through first weekend of April
• Lodging: Hotel rooms to 5-bedroom townhomes, many ski-in/ski-out
• Dining: Clipper Cafe, Thistle Pub and Grill, Wild Tomato, Mountain Market, Betsy River Pizza
• Special Programs: Nanny McSki, Ski and Sip (Nordic skiing with wine and cheese)
• Nearby: Iron Fish Distillery (3 miles), Frankfort (20 minutes), Traverse City (40 minutes)

Notable Quotes: "It's not intimidating. That's one of the best things about it. Once you're off the bunny hill, everything kind of funnels back down into the village so you don't have to worry so much about losing a kid out in the mountains." - Brittany Primeau

"There's no bad weather, just bad gear. Make sure you have everything you need. And the most important rule is just have fun." - Brittany Primeau

"Our guests are like guests in your own home. That's the way we like to think of it and treat folks. Crystal's always taken the long view and this family owned, operated feeling has just continued throughout the years." - Karen Thor

Don't miss the Annual Tent Sale, happening August 7th through 9th at the Woburn store only. The sale kicks off Friday at 5 p.m. and continues all weekend, just in time for Massachusetts Tax-Free Weekend.

Stop by Salem, Woburn, or Framingham, and head to skihaus.com to check store hours and get exact locations.

Register by August 15, 2026, and use code SKIMOMSRETREAT to save $100 on your trip.

Visit www.theskimoms.co/events to see the 2027 lineup and reserve your spot.

Get the best gear recommendations and trip-planning tips directly to your inbox. Head to skimom.substack.com to subscribe. Join for free—or upgrade for all the premium perks. 

Premium subscriptions start at just $5 a month and get to listen ad-free and unlock exclusive content, including insider travel guides, packing lists and more. 

Support the show

Keep up with the Latest from the Ski Moms!
Website: www.theskimoms.co
Ski Moms Discount Page: https://www.theskimoms.co/discounts
Ski Moms Ski Rental Homes
Join the 13,000+ Ski Moms Facebook Group
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theskimoms/

Send us an email and let us know what guests and topics you’d like to hear next!
[email protected]
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In this episode, the Ski Moms sit down with Cindy Dady, CEO of Sunlight Mountain Resort in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. Cindy brings 45 years of ski industry experience — from teaching toddlers on the bunny hill to becoming the first female general manager in Colorado not serving as an owner-operator. She shares what drew her to Sunlight, why this independent mountain is a must-visit for families, and how she's leading the resort through its biggest capital investment since 1966.

Cindy walks us through Sunlight's welcoming terrain (70 trails, 720 acres), its centralized and stress-free base area, and the resort's commitment to unreasonable hospitality. She also opens up about her career journey, the mentors who shaped her, and what a typical powder day looks like when you're the CEO who greets every guest at the lift.

Resources

• Sunlight Mountain Resort: https://www.sunlightmtn.com
• Sunlight Ski & Bike Shop (Glenwood Springs): https://www.sunlightmtn.com/ski-bike-shop
• Indy Pass: https://www.indyskipass.com
• Colorado Ski Country: https://www.coloradoski.com
• Fly into: Eagle/Vail (EGE) – 25 min from Glenwood Springs; Aspen (ASE); Grand Junction (GJT); or Denver (DEN)

Key Quotes

"We provide unreasonable hospitality to every single guest that comes. We're the Cheers bar of ski areas — everybody knows everybody."

"Every single trail leads back to the base. You will always end up in the same spot.

Don't miss the Annual Tent Sale, happening August 7th through 9th at the Woburn store only. The sale kicks off Friday at 5 p.m. and continues all weekend, just in time for Massachusetts Tax-Free Weekend.

Stop by Salem, Woburn, or Framingham, and head to skihaus.com to check store hours and get exact locations.

Register by August 15, 2026, and use code SKIMOMSRETREAT to save $100 on your trip.

Visit www.theskimoms.co/events to see the 2027 lineup and reserve your spot.

Get the best gear recommendations and trip-planning tips directly to your inbox. Head to skimom.substack.com to subscribe. Join for free—or upgrade for all the premium perks. 

Premium subscriptions start at just $5 a month and get to listen ad-free and unlock exclusive content, including insider travel guides, packing lists and more. 

Support the show

Keep up with the Latest from the Ski Moms!
Website: www.theskimoms.co
Ski Moms Discount Page: https://www.theskimoms.co/discounts
Ski Moms Ski Rental Homes
Join the 13,000+ Ski Moms Facebook Group
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theskimoms/

Send us an email and let us know what guests and topics you’d like to hear next!
[email protected]
[email protected]