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the Sharp End Podcast

the Sharp End Podcast

the Sharp End Podcast 138 Episodes Aug 1, 2026

A podcast hosted by Ashley Saupe that aims to minimize future outdoor accidents by sharing real stories from real people. Sponsored by Rocky Talkie and supported by the American Alpine Institute. The show emphasizes the message 'Play Hard and Be Smart' to promote safety in outdoor adventures.

Episodes

Ep 127 - Trapped by Wilderness Fires - Juliet and Amy
Ep 127 - Trapped by Wilderness Fires - Juliet and Amy Aug 1, 2026 00:37:00 Ep 127 - Trapped by Wilderness Fires - Juliet and Amy Tune into this episode to hear Juliet Evans and Amy Lu recount their harrowing experience in the North Cascades, navigating a wildfire threat during a backpacking trip. Learn about their decision-making, resourcefulness, and the importance of communication in outdoor safety. This podcast is produced by Ashley Saupe. This episode is sponsored
Ep 126 - Mountain Rescue in the Bugaboos - Zach Watson
Ep 126 - Mountain Rescue in the Bugaboos - Zach Watson Jul 1, 2026 01:05:41 In this episode of the Sharp End Podcast, Zach Watson shares a gripping story of a mountain accident in the Bugaboos, highlighting the importance of preparation, communication, and mental resilience in mountain rescue scenarios. Learn key lessons on safety gear, decision-making, and the value of strong partnerships in outdoor adventures. Zach Watson is a technologist based in Squamish, British C
Ep 125 - The Way Out - A True Story of Survival in the Heart of the Rockies - Devon O’Neil
Ep 125 - The Way Out - A True Story of Survival in the Heart of the Rockies - Devon O’Neil Jun 1, 2026 00:49:03 Ep 125 - The Way Out: A True Story of Survival in the Heart of the Rockies - Devon O'Neil In January 2017, three families set out on a backcountry ski trip to Uncle Bud's Cabin in the heart of the Rockies outside of Salida, Colorado. What was meant to be a fun getaway turned into a desperate search when two members of the party didn’t return from a quick ski run. In this episode, we'll dive into
Ep 124 - Climbing Liberty Ridge - Lessons Learned from a Challenging Ascent - Andy & Eric
Ep 124 - Climbing Liberty Ridge - Lessons Learned from a Challenging Ascent - Andy & Eric May 1, 2026 00:56:36 Ep 124 - Climbing Liberty Ridge: Lessons Learned from a Challenging Ascent - Andy & Eric Discover the insights from climbing Liberty Ridge on Mount Rainier, including key lessons, mistakes to avoid, and the importance of weather awareness for climbers. In June of 2016, climbers Andy Schriner and Eric Miller embarked on a challenging ascent of Liberty Ridge on Mount Rainier. With a mix of excite
Ep 123 - Maximizing Wilderness Preparedness - Insights from a Mountain Guide - Mark Smiley
Ep 123 - Maximizing Wilderness Preparedness - Insights from a Mountain Guide - Mark Smiley Apr 1, 2026 00:49:57 Ep 123 - Maximizing Wilderness Preparedness - Insights from a Mountain Guide - Mark Smiley You already know that Ashley loves wilderness medicine so much, and she always wants her listeners to be as prepared as possible in the backcountry. That's what inspired this episode. Tune in to hear Ashley interview Mark Smiley, an IFMGA Mountain Guide, who shares his expertise on outdoor safety gear, resc
Ep 122 - Surviving a Near Miss in Moonlight Basin Colorado - Garrett Vinoski
Ep 122 - Surviving a Near Miss in Moonlight Basin Colorado - Garrett Vinoski Mar 1, 2026 00:54:04 In this episode of The Sharp End Podcast, Garrett Vinoski shares his harrowing experience of a near miss during a backcountry skiing trip in Moonlight Basin on December 5th in 2023. He discusses the factors leading up to the incident, including decision-making processes, avalanche conditions, and the importance of communication and risk management in the backcountry. Garrett reflects on the emotio
Ep 121 - Pacific Crest Trail Through-Hike Tragedy - Trek For Trevor - Doug Laher
Ep 121 - Pacific Crest Trail Through-Hike Tragedy - Trek For Trevor - Doug Laher Feb 1, 2026 00:50:30 In this episode of The Sharp End Podcast, Ashley interviews the Executive director of Trek for Trevor, a charity formed in memory of his son Trevor, who tragically died while attempting to hike the Pacific Crest Trail. Doug shares Trevor's story, the importance of outdoor safety, and the mission of Trek for Trevor to educate hikers about safety gear and decision-making in the wilderness. The conve
Bonus Episode- Lessons from the Slopes- An Avalanche Experience - Rob and Mark
Bonus Episode- Lessons from the Slopes- An Avalanche Experience - Rob and Mark Jan 15, 2026 00:47:08 In this episode of The Sharp End Podcast, host Ashley speaks with Rob and Mark about their harrowing experience during an avalanche incident while skiing in the Selkirks of Canada. They discuss the events leading up to the avalanche, the survival tactics employed, and the emotional and mental challenges faced during and after the incident. The conversation emphasizes the importance of safety, deci
Ep 120 - Surviving Mount Washington - Matthew and Jeremy
Ep 120 - Surviving Mount Washington - Matthew and Jeremy Jan 1, 2026 00:57:39 In this episode, Matthew and Jeremy share their harrowing experience hiking Mount Washington, detailing the challenges they faced with unpredictable weather, navigation issues, and the importance of preparation and communication in outdoor adventures. They reflect on the lessons learned from their journey, emphasizing the need for contingency plans and the bond formed through shared adversity. Yet
Bonus Episode - Wild Ice Skating Safety - Paxson Woelber
Bonus Episode - Wild Ice Skating Safety - Paxson Woelber Dec 10, 2025 00:39:08 In this conversation Ashley interviews Paxson, the founder of Ermine Skate. He shares his journey into the world of Nordic skating and the unique concept of wild ice skating. They discuss the advantages of Nordic skates over traditional hockey or figure skates, safety tips and gear recommendations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the ice. Don't forget to sign up for the Giveaway! Ermi
Ep 119 - From Adventure to Emergency - Surviving the Sawtooths - Jeffrey Zeldin
Ep 119 - From Adventure to Emergency - Surviving the Sawtooths - Jeffrey Zeldin Dec 1, 2025 00:56:35 In this episode of the Sharp End Podcast, Jeff shares his harrowing adventure in the Sawtooth Mountains, where a climbing accident left his friend Sydney with a severe knee injury. The conversation covers their initial plans for a climbing trip, the accident itself, the emergency response, and the emotional rollercoaster of waiting for rescue. Jeff reflects on the lessons learned about preparednes
Ep 118 - DIE FIGHTING - Nathan Chaszeyka
Ep 118 - DIE FIGHTING - Nathan Chaszeyka Nov 1, 2025 01:07:04 In this episode of The Sharp End podcast, Nathan shares his incredible journey as an experienced climber, detailing his long-awaited ascent of Bird Brain Boulevard, the challenges he faced during the climb, and the life-altering fall that led to a dramatic self-rescue. Nathan reflects on the importance of patience, the mental and emotional fallout of climbing accidents, and the invaluable lessons

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