We Do This For Fun

How do you become the namesake of a tv show? In this case, you’re a charming yogi, emcee, rapper, and outdoor enthusiast who promotes Minnesota outdoor culture- this is not your grandparents’ fishing show! In his emmy award winning TPT series, Outside Chance, Chance York modernizes Minnesota adventure programming while shining a light on the people who provide the opportunities for us to get out of our comfort zones. If we step off the beaten path Chance vows we’ll begin to feel life’s limitless potential. Turn fear and uncertainty into empowerment- want to learn how? Season 2 of Outside Chance has been released, check out the preview for ideas of how you too can find your edge.

Ultra-endurance athlete Kate Coward (1st Female Bike, 2023 Arrowhead 135!) sends a vocal love letter to fellow cyclist, Leah Gruhn, who embarks on the Iditarod Trail Invitational (ITI) 1000 on February 26, 2023. Kate’s big love, respect and admiration shows us what women uplifting women looks like.

Stephanie Pearson is a freelance writer, contributing editor to Outside magazine, and author of "100 Great American Parks," published by National Geographic. As one would expect, we talk about her travels, outdoor gear and her super cool assignments. Stephanie reveals she’s much more than a writer about places, but a writer who believes she has a responsibility to the natural world. When, where and how much we travel are questions infused into her work given the impact of travel on the planet.

Watch for Stephanie’s feature in National Geographic this March or April!

Follow her @stephanieapearson

The “humble hustle” of the Midwest brought Scott Rokis to MN. In 2016, Scott ditched corporate life and followed his heart to adventure and make art. Scott is a sage as much as a photographer encouraging us to pay attention to our feelings and take action when the moment calls. Be sure to listen to the end for free photography advice!

Back at our favorite spot, the Trailhead at Theodore Wirth Park we catch up with Executive Director of the Loppet Foundation, Claire Wilson. Updates from the Foundation including an invitation to visit the Trailhead for tubing, cross country skiing and fat biking or to sip a hot beverage and play indoor games. But what you’re really looking for are the tips and tricks for experiencing the Luminary Loppet and City of Lakes Loppet Winter Festival. Skijoring, Kubb, nordic ski races and a lake of luminaries all in the heart of Minneapolis. Find your snow pants- you’ve got Minnesota winter events to attend!

City of Lakes Loppet Winter Festival: February 4 and 5, 2023

Luminary Loppet: February 18, 2023

It’s well known that lakes are a hub of activity in the summer, but did you know that Minnesota lakes are bustling with activity throughout the winter? The Art Shanty Projects is a winter festival that takes place on Bde Unna a.k.a Lake Harriet every year like clockwork. Snowfall and warming weather called for relocation and an operation they call “Project Beach”.  Artistic Director, Erin Lavelle, hosted me at the Welcome Shanty and offers you a sneak peak at into 2023’s Art Shanty Project.

Inspired by her own experience at the Great Northern Festival in 2022, Nina Graham bought her first pair of snow pants and began a relationship with winter. The Great Northern Festival is coming for you too. Celebrate winter culture in Minnesota with ten days of art, dance, sports, talks, family events and parties- so many parties. This event might deepen your relationship or even spark a love affair with winter and inspire you to take action to protect our winters from climate change.

Wilderness First Responder (WFR), thru hiker, guide, activist Alexa Shapiro co-founded the Winona Outdoor Collaborative to break down barriers. A commitment to outdoor recreating for all, she’s helped create an inclusive space for various marginalized voices. Free events and workshops, reduced cost equipment rental and an outdoor retail shop give offer all the opportunity build confidence and skills and enjoy all the benefits nature provides.

Adult summer camp? Yes please! Camp counselors, a school bus, crafts, a scavenger hunt and so much more, Jamie Nelson and Jenny Dennis created a “camp” Jodi was lucky enough to have attended. Participation without pause- adults can have fun just like kids do, we just might need “camp counselors” like Jamie and Jenny to help us get there.

Jodi, Lynn and their friend Darbie Sater show first-time camper Colleen Ueland the beauty of camping at Gooseberry Falls. Lynn brought gear, Jodi brought too much food, Darbiene brought bug hats for all and Colleen brought dance costumes (listen to learn more!). They slept under the stars, hiked the North Shore, meditated lakeside, laughed abundantly and recorded a podcast, much to Colleen and Darbie’s surprise. Get outside with friends - you will not regret it.