Today on Open Container, Doug explores the deeper meaning behind Kilian Jornet’s “States of Elevation” project, a 3,200-mile, human-powered journey linking all 72 fourteeners in the lower 48 states. Jornet ran, climbed, and biked his way across America’s highest peaks, not to set a record, but to experience the wild beauty of the mountains.

Joining Doug is Bryon Powell, ultrarunner, writer, and founder of iRunFar.com, who ran with Jornet on Colorado’s Handies Peak and witnessed the project firsthand.

Topics include:

• The philosophy behind Jornet’s project: why beauty, not conquest, drives true adventure.
• How the “States of Elevation” linked wilderness, athleticism, and mindfulness.
• The power of community and support in massive endurance undertakings.
• Indigenous and public land connections to the mountains we climb.
• Why projects like this remind us to protect and cherish wild places.
• How everyday runners and hikers can find their own “states of elevation” close to home.

Doug and Bryon also discuss how outdoor storytelling and recreation can spark stewardship and how being out there makes us care more deeply about what’s at stake for public lands.

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In this episode of Open Container, host Doug Schnitzspahn talks with Berne Broudy, writer, filmmaker, and director of Best Day Ever, and Greg Durso, adaptive athlete and Senior Program Director at the Kelly Brush Foundation.

Together, they share the story behind Best Day Ever, a film and movement that began when a few friends realized their local trails weren’t accessible to adaptive riders.

Doug, Berne, and Greg dig into:

• How the Vermont community came together to build The Driving Range, a fully adaptive mountain bike trail network.
• The power of collaboration between adaptive and non-adaptive riders.
• Why accessibility doesn’t mean easier, it means better trails for everyone.
• How the Best Day Ever film is changing perceptions around disability and outdoor recreation.
• The growing blueprint for inclusive trail design spreading across North America.
• The emotional core of the project: joy, friendship, and redefining what’s possible.

At its heart, this is a story about community. How shared effort, empathy, and dirt under your fingernails can create a future where everyone can ride together.

Where to Watch the film: https://www.bestdayever.mov/

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Today, Doug Schnitzspahn sits down with director and photographer Ben Clark to explore a rare story of restoration and resilience on America’s wild lands.

Drawing on his background as an adventurer and filmmaker, Ben shares behind-the-scenes insights from his new documentary, Preserved, which chronicles the ambitious revitalization of Vermejo Park Ranch - a 560,000-acre landscape in northern New Mexico and southern Colorado.

Doug and Ben discuss environmental destruction and rebirth, reflecting on how even scarred places, whether clear-cut forests in Idaho or polluted beaches of the Jersey Shore, can find new life with hope, hard work, and innovative conservation.

Timestamped summary

00:00 America's Expanding Environmental Scars

03:28 "Nature's Resilience and Regrowth"

09:21 Collaborative Conservation Efforts

11:37 Science Communication Challenges

13:58 Landscape Filmmaker Focuses on Characters

16:57 Backpacking and Filming in the Rockies

23:01 Indigenous Stewardship and Land Models

26:34 Conservation Success in North America

29:37 "Dividing Vast Wilderness: A Journey"

32:09 Reduce Excessive Spending Habits

35:31 "Open Container: Follow & Engage"

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Host Doug Schnitzspahn kicks things off with a personal reflection on how these wild places are woven into our national identity and the critical roles they play, not just as recreation spaces, but as battlegrounds for conservation, resource extraction, and cultural connection.

Joining Doug is Chris Keyes, former editor in chief of Outside magazine and founder of RE:PUBLIC, a new non-profit newsroom dedicated to covering the politics, people, and future of America's public lands.

Together, they explore what makes the American public lands system unique in the world, how it’s managed, and why it stirs such passionate, bipartisan support.

From the legacy of Indigenous stewardship to the modern pressures of population and politics, the episode asks: Who really owns America's wild places, and how do we ensure their future?

• 00:00 Hope in Public Lands
• 04:35 "Finding Healing on the Road"
• 07:34 Freedom of Camping on Public Lands
• 12:58 Bipartisan Support for Public Land Conservation
• 13:53 Legacy of American Public Lands
• 19:30 Journalism's Advertising Dependency Crisis
• 20:44 Journalism: Navigating Bipartisan Challenges
• 25:42 Nonprofit Media: Partnership Over Competition
• 27:45 Media's Role in Legislative Awareness
• 31:30 "Advertising Threatens Editorial Independence"
• 33:47 Long-Form Journalism's Enduring Appeal
• 37:13 Nature's Restorative Powers: Access Essential

Click here to learn more about RE:PUBLIC.

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Campbell, known for his career in the outdoor industry and international expeditions, has turned his focus toward humanitarian storytelling in conflict zones. He shares his experience embedding with medics, civilians, and soldiers on the frontlines of Ukraine, capturing the resilience of ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances.

Topics include:

• How a career in climbing and the outdoor industry prepared Campbell for work in war zones.
• The misinformation and propaganda surrounding Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
• The resilience and humanity of everyday Ukrainians, from news presenters to frontline medics.
• The moral weight of documenting war and maintaining hope amid devastation.
• How outdoor values—risk, resilience, and connection—translate into humanitarian action.
• The legacy of Peter Fouché, a frontline medic featured in the film who was killed in 2024.

Jordan’s story is one of risk, responsibility, and resilience. It’s about what it means to live with compassion and document truth, even in the harshest conditions.

Learn more about the film and upcoming screenings at ukraineunderfire.org.

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In this episode of Open Container, Doug speaks with Kristen Miller, Executive Director of the Alaska Wilderness League and co-chair of the Arctic Refuge Defense Campaign. They explore what’s at stake in Alaska’s wilderness and why it matters for all Americans, even those who will never set foot there.

Doug & Kristen discuss:

• Why Alaska represents the last frontier of American wilderness.
• The scale and significance of the Arctic Refuge, the Western Arctic, the Arctic Ocean, and the Tongass.
• Indigenous leadership and the cultural ties of the Gwich’in people to the caribou migration.
• How development and climate change threaten fragile Arctic ecosystems.
• The political battles over drilling, roadless rules, and public lands policy.
• Why wilderness isn’t a partisan issue, and how ordinary people can use their voices to protect these lands.

Alaska’s wild places are more than resources to exploit; they are cultural, ecological, and spiritual lifelines that belong to us all.

Learn more and get involved at alaskawild.org

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Today Doug Schnitzspahn opens the container with photographer, filmmaker, and writer Andrew Kornylak, whose new book Spare These Stones: A Journey Through Southern Climbing Culture (Mountaineers Books) captures the hidden corners and unsung heroes of the Southern climbing world.

Doug and Andrew explore:

• Why the South is one of the most underrated outdoor regions in America.
• The transition from secret stashes and handshake access to organized land trusts and sustainable stewardship.
• How climbing culture in the South reflects modesty, humility, and a deep respect for community.
• Stories of iconic characters, legendary crags, and grassroots conservation victories.
• Why the lessons learned in the South matter for climbers, paddlers, hikers, and outdoor lovers everywhere.

Spare These Stones isn’t just a climbing book, it’s a love letter to Southern landscapes, music, people, and culture.

Order Spare These Stones at andrewkornylak.com or wherever books are sold.

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Doug begins the episode looking at the interconnectedness of humanity and nature noting that the outdoors is not a separate entity but an integral part of our existence.

Doug is then joined by writer, podcaster, and educator Shawnté Salabert to talk about what it really means to “be outdoors”? From feral kid neighborhood adventures to life changing miles on the PCT, Shawnté brings heart, humor, and a sharp perspective on:

• Hiking as meditation (and why two nights outside changes everything)
• The culture of sharing on long trails
• Rethinking outdoor history through Indigenous names and stewardship
• Finding wildness in LA, New York, and beyond
• Launching her new podcast Gear Abby right here on the Rock Fight Podcast network!

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Doug begins the show highlighting the transformative potential of outdoor recreation in revitalizing small-town economies. Because, as we learned from Ray Kinsella's voice "if you build it, they will come."

Doug is then joined by Katherine Andrews. As Arkansas' Director of the Office of Outdoor Recreation, Katherine understands how strategically developed recreational facilities and infrastructure can stimulate economic growth and attract new residents.

Doug & Katherine look at Arkansas as a leader in recreation. A place where successful initiatives have leveraged outdoor activities to foster community engagement and economic sustainability.

Together they explore the role of local governments and community involvement in recreation and emphasize that economic development does not need vast resources or power.

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Doug begins the show discussing the need for sustainability; both due to consumer behavior and in order to achieve environmental conservation. He explores the idea that individuals gravitate towards choices that are easy, obvious, and convenient, which directly impacts their decision making processes and spending habits.

Doug is then joined by Sophie Benson,  a journalist whose work focuses on sustainable fashion, the environment, workers’ rights, and consumerism. Their discussion takes a look at the complexities of human behavior in outdoor settings, where hikers frequently opt for shortcuts, underscoring the challenge of encouraging environmentally responsible practices.

Doug and Sophie go on to examine the relationship between sustainability, economic viability, and the welfare of our communities while positing that meaningful change necessitates a holistic approach that integrates ethical considerations with practical solutions.

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Doug begins today's episode with an exploration of the profound cultural shift from outright denial to a pervasive apathy regarding environmental issues. But he also offers a more hopeful narrative, showcasing significant victories in conservation, such as the surge in dam removals across the United States.

Doug is then joined by Robert Hanna, a descendant of the renowned environmentalist John Muir. Robert talks about the ongoing struggle for conservation, emphasizing the necessity of collaboration across all communities.

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Doug begins the show by embracing dirtbag status. If you work in the outdoor industry, you are indeed a dirtbag. Because you have merged your passion for the outdoors with a career choice that should allow you more time outside.

Doug is then joined by Greg Williams, president of Backbone Media, who shares his extensive background working at the intersection of business and outdoor culture. From starting a climbing gym in Philadelphia, to helping to lead one of the leading outdoor PR and media companies, Greg understands the evolution of brands that come from a dirtbag ethos.

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Doug begins the show by invoking the spirit of Henry David Thoreau whose philosophical tenets epitomized the need for individuals to reclaim their connection to nature. Doug also reflects on our experiences held in the wilderness and how they underscore the significant growth of resilience, and introspection.

He is then joined by Ian Yolles who has worn many hats in the outdoor industry and community. Ian is one of the authors of the recently released book, Carry the Flame: The Remarkable Story of the Canadian Outward Bound Wilderness School. Through over fifty personal stories from alumni, staff, and founders, the book captures the spirit of the school’s enduring legacy.

Together Doug and Ian discuss wilderness not only as a physical space but as a vital component of our humanity.

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Doug begins this episode by recounting the life of his family who immigrated to the United States from Germany and discovered the outdoors while building a remarkable life in their new home country.

Doug is then joined by brothers Nick and Chikki Shajwani, immigrant entrepreneurs who have founded and developed Molly's Place, a prominent establishment for hunting and outdoor gear on the Eastern Shore of Maryland.

During their conversation they talk about their experiences turning a hardware store to a specialized outdoor retailer, emphasizing their commitment to community engagement and embracing local outdoor culture. The Shajwani brothers reflect on the significance of their heritage, underscoring how it informs their business philosophy and fosters resilience in the face of challenges. They also share insights into their customer base, which is made up of hardworking individuals who embody a profound and often culturally infused appreciation for the outdoors.

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Doug begins the episode discussing our obsession with roads. While there is a lot to love about the highways that take us to amazing places, the world is undoubtedly suffering because we've paved in so much of them. The topic of roads is timely given the Trump administration's rescinding of the roadless rule threatens to open 58 million acres of national forest to road building, posing significant risks to habitats and species.

Doug is then joined by author Ben Goldfarb, who has written about road ecology and why beavers matter. Doug & Ben address the underpinnings of conservation, advocating for a shift towards recognizing the right of nature to exist independently.

Together they underscore the necessity of preserving roadless areas as essential components of a sustainable future.

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Doug begins the show by recounting the personal impact the recent legislative attempt to sell off portions of our public lands had on him and the relief he felt when that attempt failed. He also highlights how the collective response from the outdoor world—spanning hunters, hikers, and conservation advocates—showed what the outdoor community is capable of when we act together.

Doug is then joined by Jessica Turner, the president of the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable. During their conversation they dissect the ramifications of the failed proposal and emphasize the necessity of preserving public lands as vital resources.

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Doug begins the show by weighing in on the timely and urgent need to protect our public lands, which are currently facing a historical and unprecedented threat. He talks about the implications of a legislative push that could result in the sale of millions of acres of these cherished spaces, highlighting a provision introduced by Senator Mike Lee that jeopardizes the beautiful and wild places that belongs to all Americans.

Doug is then joined by Teresa Baker, a passionate advocate for inclusivity within the outdoor community who reinforces the notion that these spaces should be accessible to everyone.

Throughout their discussion, Teresa and Doug emphasize the value of these lands and engage in a conversation about the intersection of joy, resistance, and the responsibility to safeguard these environments that define who we are.

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Doug begins the show by reflecting on the evolution of the outdoor recreation industry and humanity's changing relationship with nature. What began as mere survival has changed to become the pursuit of recreation, contemplation, and connection within the natural world.

Doug is then joined by the former CEO of Moosejaw Mountaineering Eoin Comerford. Today Eoin advises emerging brand and offers his insight into the outdoor industry on The Rock Fight podcast. The conversation highlights the economic significance of outdoor recreation, which now represents a substantial portion of the U.S. GDP, underscoring its critical role in cultural and environmental discourse.

Together Eoin and Doug explore the intersection of politics and environmental stewardship, emphasizing the necessity for inclusivity and sustainability within the modern outdoor industry.

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Doug opens the show lamenting the fact that despite the challenges our natural world faces, environmentalist has become a dirty word these days. He goes on to describe the 30 by 30 initiative, which seeks to conserve 30% of the Earth’s ecosystems by the year 2030, and implore Open Container listeners to help protect our planet however they can.

Doug is then joined by Drew Simmons who is known for his work in the PR and media world of the outdoor industry. Their conversation navigates the relationship between outdoor recreation and conservation, advocating for a unified approach that recognizes the inherent value of the outdoors beyond human enjoyment.

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Doug opens the show describing the magic of river time. The feeling when one goes on a river trip and the confines of our modern lives go out the window. Where the simplicity and routine of the tasks required on the river take over and how this is especially true for those with ADHD.

Doug is then joined by Bridget Crocker, a renowned river guide and author of The River’s Daughter; which is available to the public on the same day this episode comes out.

Bridget shares her insights on how navigating rivers can serve as a metaphor for personal growth and healing from trauma. She recounts the lessons she learned from a life on the river and the learnings it provided her as she navigated her own family trauma and subsequent healing.

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Doug begins the episode reflecting on his first experience moving to the western US where the natural beauty of the outdoors was overwhelming and he encountered an overarching sentiment of distrust and anger towards himself as a newcomer as well as the government authority who was employing him. That same mentality has persisted and is playing a role in the current effort to sell off our public lands.

Doug is then joined by Betsy Gaines Quammen who has written multiple books on the culture of the west, and discusses the multifaceted relationship between local narratives, environmental stewardship, and the politics that threaten our shared landscapes.

Note: This episode was recorded before the failed republican lead effort to sell off 500,000 acres of public lands in Nevada and Utah.

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The open of today's episode focuses on the final days of Doug's father and how in his grief it was nature that spoke to and comforted him.

Doug is then joined by musician Greta Morgan who's new book, The Lost Voice, details her journey of losing her singing voice due to a combination of spasmodic dysphonia and long Covid and the journey of discovery that then unfolded for her in the wilderness.

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In his open, Doug talks about fear. The way it arrives, has a tendency to stick around and how a clear head can go a long way in scary situations.

Doug is then joined by performance psychologist David Mykel. Through their conversation, Doug and David discuss the intricate relationship between fear and the exhilaration that comes from the wild. They talk about how going outside can foster a sense of vitality and authenticity that is often missing in everyday life.

David also recounts his journey from the precipice of despair and how he discovered healing through the natural world.

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Doug begins the show by sharing how his life was shaped by his cancer diagnosis in the fall of 2024. A diagnosis that has not only reshaped his perspective on life but also deepened his appreciation for our beautiful planet.

Doug is then joined by polar adventurer (not explorer) Eric Larson, who has also battled cancer. Eric's extensive travels in some of the planet’s most remote regions provide a unique lens through which he is better able to examine resilience and the healing power of nature.

Together, Doug and Eric explore the connections between their personal battles, the unique challenges of parenting, and the broader environmental crises facing our planet.

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Doug opens the show by talking about the historical role of storytelling. He points out that storytelling is not merely a form of communication but a fundamental aspect of human evolution and something that allows us to connect with one another and understand our place in the cosmos. Storytelling is also a cornerstone of our outdoor community; something that evokes genuine engagement and reflection among its participants.

Doug is then joined by Mike Rogge, the owner of Mountain Gazette. Doug & Mike reflect on the modern challenges facing storytelling in a digital age, where brevity often overshadows depth. They both advocate for a return to more profound narratives that resonate with readers. Narratives that foster connection and understanding and also make you want to let it rip when you go outside.

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Doug opens the show talking about outdoor public relations. He highlights the intricate dynamics between outdoor brands and PR as a mechanism that helps to create their success. By sharing his own personal experiences as a working journalist in the outdoor industry, Doug describes how PR is inextricably tied to the outdoor industry.

Doug is then joined by Chris Goddard, a luminary in the industry, who elucidates the essential role of public relations in advocating not only for brands but for the broader outdoor lifestyle itself. Doug and Chris explore the evolution of the outdoor industry, particularly in light of recent societal shifts, and they take a look at the current outdoor media landscape and the importance of cultivating long-lasting relationships within the industry.

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Doug opens todays show by talking about participating in competitive sports as a kid and the transformation of embracing outdoor pursuits that were free of competitive pressures. Along the way he realized that it's ok to do competitive events in the outdoors and also have fun while doing them.

Doug is then joined by Billy Demong, an esteemed Olympian and gold medal winner in Nordic combined, who talks about the balance between competition and enjoyment in outdoor sports. Doug and Billy also delve into the significance of mentorship and the encouragement of youth in sporting activities, emphasizing the importance of personal growth over mere accolades.

Their conversation underscores the connection between nature, sport, and community, illustrating how these elements can combine to enrich our lives.

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The episode opens with Doug exploring dreams, the supernatural and how science plays into different human experiences that are often hard to explain. Then to get a deeper understanding of human consciousness, Doug is joined by author Brooke Williams.

Together they explore the concept of re-enchantment, a notion that seeks to reconnect us with the natural world and the enchantment it holds, particularly through experiences in the wilderness. Brooke articulates his belief that our dreams, especially those experienced while immersed in nature, can serve as a bridge to understanding the unconscious and the primal aspects of our being.

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Doug starts the episode by recounting his personal journey and experiences in Montana, a state rich in both natural beauty and a communal spirit. A place that for Doug was not only about the incredible landscape but also the warmth and generosity of the locals who helped him when he was just getting his life started.

Doug is then joined by conservationist, hunter, angler, and Montanan, Rachelle Schrute.

Rachelle and Doug discuss the imperative of conservation, with Rachelle articulating her perspective as both a hunter and conservationist. She emphasizes the need for a collective commitment to protect public lands, advocating for unity among individuals with differing political beliefs.

Read Rachelle's work by clicking here or here.

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Doug opens the show highlighting how the outdoor industry was built on the back of solving problems for those looking to go outside. He also details how the industry attracts entrepreneurial individuals looking for ways to blend a career with outdoor pursuits. This mindset is what has allowed the outdoor industry to become what it is today.

Doug is then joined by Gnara founder Georgia Grace (GG) Edwards and the conversation goes into the broader implications of inclusivity within the outdoor industry, emphasizing how addressing specific needs often results in enhancements that benefit a diverse clientele.

Doug & GG explore the ethos of the outdoor business landscape, looking at how prioritizing problem-solving over mere profit generation is a principle that is epitomized by Gnara's mission and how, at the very least, everyone has the ability to "show the fuck up".

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This episode of Open Container looks at the connection between Zen philosophy and heading outside. Doug opens the show recounting the lessons he learned while backpacking 30 miles from the Pacific Ocean to the oldest Japanese monastery in the US. The lessons he learned along the way helped to remind him of some basic tenants in times of stress: Go outside. See things. And see the world that sees you.

Doug is then joined by author and Zen teacher, Katie Arnold. Katie's new book Brief Flashings In The Phenomenal World is a Zen study but also a memoir of a time of pain and struggle in Katie's life.

Katie and Doug talk about the the essence of flow—a state of being where individuals become one with their activity. Katie also articulates her transformative journey following a life-altering injury, explaining how Zen principles aided her in continuing her passion for running and her relationship with nature.

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Doug opens the show talking about how he discovered wilderness in his youth and how that lead him to meet Jonathan Klein.

Jonathan had an extensive career, spending three decades working for Montana's forest service. After retiring Jonathan continued his pursuit of wilderness by embarking on a 700-mile solo canoe from Saskatchewan to Hudson Bay. That journey was chronicled in his book: Back to the Trees & Caves.

Together Doug and Jonathan talk about their relationships to wilderness and our collective responsibility to preserve the dwindling wild spaces that remain.

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Doug starts the show by recounting his earliest experiences with outdoor magazines and how those experiences fueled a career writing about the outdoors. He reflects on the importance of storytelling for those who choose to spend time in nature and how moves like the recent layoffs by Outside magazine diminishes the opportunity for many to discover the magic of the outdoors.

Doug is then joined by Stephen Casimiro, founder and editor of Adventure Journal. Stephen talks about the evolving landscape of storytelling within the outdoor industry, emphasizing the necessity for authentic narratives that resonate with readers on a deeper level.

Doug and Stephen explore the shift from performance-oriented adventures to more contemplative engagements with nature. They also talk about the fight that is at our doorstep when it comes to protecting our public lands.

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Doug begins the episode by reflecting on the need for innovation within the outdoor and ski industries. He talks about his 25 years of working within those industries during which he has observed how the outdoors is adept at prioritizing creativity and problem-solving over mere profit maximization.

Doug is then joined by Mike and Danica Carey of Seirus Innovation, who talk about the significance of fostering an inclusive culture that welcomes diversity, recognizing that a broad spectrum of perspectives can lead to greater creativity and innovation.

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Doug starts the episode by diving into the significance of the wilderness as a source of inspiration and creativity, emphasizing that the desert offers a unique perspective that can rejuvenate our minds and spirits.

He then speaks with Cody Chamberlain, an accomplished artist with deep roots in Utah's landscapes. Cody shares insights on how his lifelong engagement with the natural world informs his artistic practice and fosters a commitment to environmental stewardship.

Doug and Cody explore the essential role of art in navigating contemporary challenges, urging listeners to recognize the value of wild spaces in preserving our humanity amidst the cacophony of modern life.

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Moments of awe transcend mere experiences. They serve as pivotal junctures in our personal narratives, fostering healing and a deeper understanding of our existence. And while the outdoors is a source for awe inspiring moments, awe can also be found everywhere.

Today's guest is Stacy Bare, who has dedicated his life to harnessing the therapeutic power of awe, particularly for veterans and individuals grappling with trauma. Our conversation underscores the importance of cultivating awe in our daily lives and encourages listeners to seek out and embrace these moments, no matter how small.

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Doug opens the show talking about the ongoing struggle to protect public lands from privatization and the critical need for increased political engagement among outdoor enthusiasts. He also delves into the contemporary implications of such efforts, particularly highlighted by the recent bid by certain factions to diminish public land protections.

Then Doug sits down with Caroline Gleich, a professional ski mountaineer and environmental advocate, who underscores the importance of authentic representation in politics, particularly from individuals who are deeply connected to the outdoors.

Caroline also talks about her recent experience running for Senate and what to expect (and how to cope) during the coming four years.

Learn more about Caroline Gleich by clicking here.

Thanks for listening! Open Container is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

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Filmmaker Chad Brown is a passionate advocate for environmental justice and founder of the nonprofit Love Is King. During this conversation he discusses the intersection of conservation and social justice, emphasizing that true conservation must recognize the sacredness of land and its cultural significance.

Chad highlights the importance of diverse voices in the conservation movement, particularly those of BIPOC leaders who have historically been marginalized. He shares insights from his latest film, Resilience Rising: Echoes of Owhyee Canyonlands, which captures the journey of five BIPOC leaders as they explore and connect with the land's deep history and significance. Chad also reflects on the healing power of nature in his own life, particularly as a veteran dealing with PTSD.

The discussion culminates in a powerful reminder that actions taken today shape the world for future generations, reinforcing the idea that love and community are essential in the fight for justice and preservation of our natural spaces.

Learn more about Chad's environmental justice work by clicking here.

Thanks for listening! Open Container is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

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This episode delves into the evolving landscape of outdoor storytelling and inclusivity, emphasizing the need for diverse voices and perspectives within the outdoor industry.

Doug's guest today, Dani Reyes-Acosta, is an advocate and cultural strategist. She and Doug discuss her journey of self-discovery and connection to nature, highlighting the importance of representation beyond traditional narratives dominated by white male perspectives.

The conversation touches on the significance of community engagement and the value of grassroots organizations that prioritize authentic storytelling and inclusivity. Dani shares her experiences in filmmaking and advocacy, urging listeners to recognize their inherent worth and the necessity of fostering connections amongst different communities.

Thanks for listening! Open Container is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

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The rise in outdoor recreation has always been a part of the American experience, with transcendentalists like Emerson and Thoreau heading to the woods for enlightenment, down to current day secularists just wanting to get away from work. The indigenous people of this continent whose lands were taken and occupied had a deep connection to these spaces and still do.

Luis joins the show to discuss the critical role of outdoor recreation departments in advocating for the outdoor community and promoting sustainable practices on public lands.

He shares his journey from guiding on Everest to becoming a prominent advocate for the outdoor recreation sector, highlighting the importance of collaboration across political lines to address shared concerns for conservation and accessibility.

The discussion also touches on challenges faced by the outdoor industry, including increasing pressure on public lands and the necessity of responsible management as more people seek outdoor experiences.

Through their dialogue, they emphasize the potential for a national department of outdoor recreation to unify efforts and further protect these vital spaces for future generations.

Note: This conversation was recorded before the 2024 presidential election.



Thanks for listening! Open Container is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

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