On Step Alaska
On Step Alaska is a podcast hosted from Alaska that focuses on personal growth and skill-building in areas like hunting, fishing, writing, photography, filmmaking, and entrepreneurship. Each episode explores the real journey behind becoming an expert in these fields, rather than just the end result. The show emphasizes that no one starts out as a professional and highlights the steps, challenges, and lessons learned along the way. It aims to inspire listeners who are pursuing their own paths in outdoor and creative industries.
Episodes
Episode 520 - Harrison Gottschling, Fairbanks resident
In this episode, I talk to Fairbanks resident Harrison Gottschling about moving his family out of a dry cabin and into a home with running water, the benefits and challenges of that transition, and how it changed family life. We also discuss Harrison’s travel-heavy job repairing satellite equipment in tiny remote communities around the state, outdoor adventures with his kids, hunting traditions, t
Episode 519 - Ashley Stimpson, writing, dogs and AM radio
Ashley Stimpson is a journalist and president of the Outdoor Writers Association of America. In this episode we talk about her path into freelance writing and some of her favorite stories—ranging from greyhound racing to Mason–Dixon markers and AM radio. We discuss reporting, editing, pitching, the value of long-form work, and how finding community and organizations can help writers grow professio
Episode 518 - Zack Butterfield, Outdoor therapy
Zack Butterfield is a hunter and mental health counselor. In this episode we talk about why getting outside—especially morning sunlight—helps mood, immunity, and stress regulation. We also talks about the role of social media, rural mental health, practical steps like short morning walks and light therapy, and his book "Hunting for Happiness." This episode blends hunting stories with accessible me
Episode 517 - Kellen Golightly, Upland bird hunting
Kellen Golightly is an avid upland game hunter from Utah and host of Bird Camp Radio. We discuss Utah’s diverse upland species, public-land access, conservation challenges, and how Bird Camp Radio connects hunters across states to promote stewardship and community.
I Went to the Woods — A New Chapter from On Step Alaska
This short introduction is for my new project the I Went to the Woods podcast. A new show that features outdoor creatives, conservationists, filmmakers and writers sharing stories about hunting, fishing, conservation and the creative process.
Subscribe to I Went to the Woods to hear these interviews alongside On Step Alaska and follow both feeds to stay up to date with new episodes and behind-the-
Episode 516 - Date night in the alpine
Abby and I were able to go on our first overnight alpine hunting trip in two years. (Thanks Mimi and Papa) We recap the hike up, the hectic stalk at last light, and hiking back to camp in the dark. We're tired, we're thirsty, but we're amped in this on-location episode.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska. Thanks to the sp
Episode 515 - The meat episode
Lou Tamposi and I walk through a practical, no-nonsense guide to processing deer—from head to hindquarter. We discuss cuts (tenderloin, backstrap, neck, shanks, ribs), cooking methods (braises, steaks, sausages, bacon), tools (knives, grinders, vacuum sealers), and using bones for stock.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.
Tha
Episode 514 - Dam the Su?
In this episode, Melis Coady explains the proposed Susitna‑Watana hydroelectric dam. We discuss its scale, potential impacts on salmon and local communities, and seismic risk. We also talk about the project’s history, funding pressures from public and private investors, and the renewable strategies like distributed wind, solar, and small hydro.
Photo by Sarah Ann Loreth
Check out the On Step Alas
Episode 513 - Cabin tools and hunting gear
I get asked about heavy equipment and tools even though this cabin build is a remote build so in this episode I go through the tools and boat gear for the cabin build. Then I get into the longevity of my hunting and fishing gear.
Episode 512 - Summer's almost over and the roof's not done
I recorded this episode while I was making a run out to the cabin build site with the last of the tongue and groove decking for the roof, the fascia and the bargeboards. I recap the frustrations of the build, some of the good stuff, and go into details about what came in the "kit."
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.
Thanks t
Episode 511 - Hunter image and summer cooking
It's time for the monthly check-in with writer and hunter Lou Tamposi. In this episode we chat about hunter image, the start of the the deer season, and how he's handling summer in Massachusetts.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.
Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebrush Dry (Alaskan-owned business that sells the best dry bags you
Episode 510 - Backcountry Hunters & Anglers
Ryan "Cal" Callaghan (Meateater, First Lite) discusses balancing new fatherhood with leading Backcountry Hunters & Anglers. He explains why there is really no such thing as isolated conservation issues, the newest threats to public land and why informed advocacy, and responsible storytelling (including social media) can mobilize communities to protect habitat, stay engaged with policy, and hav
Episode 509 - Remote cabin building in interior Alaska
In this episode Margaret Stern tells about her experience building a remote cabin in Interior Alaska—buying land sight unseen, living in a teepee, sourcing and milling local timber, and improvising foundations and finishes in extreme conditions.
She also discusses a new lakeside property, plans for a timber-frame sauna as phase one, tool recommendations, community support in Talkeetna, and practic
Episode 508 - Alaska's political future
Journalist James Brooks discusses life reporting across Alaska—from biking through -40 winters to covering the state’s evolving politics. He explains how declining oil revenue, maintenance backlogs, and understaffed agencies have pushed Alaska toward difficult budget choices. We discuss the push for a Trans-Alaska gas pipeline and proposed tax breaks, the role of mining and tourism, the ballot fi
Episode 507 - Bristol Bay recap
Finally, the recap of the trip to Bristol Bay and fishing at Last Cast Lodge on the Kvichak River. I talk about expectations, the difference between a general set up for a stitch rod and one specifically designed for two-handed casting, threats to Bristol Bay and the sad state of downtown Anchorage.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all thing
Episode 506 - Why build a remote cabin?
Ketchikan resident Larry Jackson and I discuss the realities of building a remote Alaska cabin — from digging footings through muskeg and timing tides to unloading bundles by boat and getting help from a buddy with a landing craft. We cover practical lessons on logistics, dock and launch etiquette, dealing with weather and materials, the joys and pitfalls of DIY projects, and why knowing your goal
Episode 505 - From Ketchikan to Capitol Hill
Ketchikan High School graduate Eddie Gomez earned degrees in economics and political science at American University. In this episode we discuss his college adjustment, internships (including working with Sen. Murkowski), the role of AI/ChatGPT in research and interview prep, concerns about modern higher education, and the value of summer jobs.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on S
Episode 504 - Summers in Bristol Bay
From the Last Cast Lodge on the Kvichak river, the Walton family shares their favorite fishing memories, commercial fishing, buying and running their Bristol Bay lodge, family traditions, and the decisions that made their dream possible. The episode covers guiding moments on the water, financial discipline and legacy, community ties, conservation concerns like Pebble Mine, and how family bonds kee
Episode 503 - How to fish Bristol Bay
It's travel angling time, so here's a repost of the episode I did with Dagen Walton from Last Change lodge on the Kvichak river in the legendary Bristol Bay region of Alaska. He explains choices for rods, reels, lines, leaders, sink tips, and flies, and how they shape on-river performance.
We cover casting methods, swing and indicator tactics, hookset timing, essential boat and pack setups, and tr
Episode 502 - Summer is here
Lou Tamposi and I talk about the joys of early-summer light, a frustrating turkey season, birthday traditions, and family life, while planning fishing and cabin projects in Alaska. We also touch on teaching end-of-year challenges, favorite meals and books, and broader concerns about technology, sustainability, and staying connected to where our food comes from.
Check out the On Step Alaska website
Episode 501 - Island life crisis
In this episode, journalist and author Sara Kehaulani Goo discusses her book Kuleana: A Story of Family, Land and Legacy in Old Hawaii. She summarizes the story of how a shocking tax increase on land granted to her family 175 years ago nearly cost them the property. The story is highly relatable as wealthy non-locals gobble up land which prices out many locals in tourist destinations like Hawaii a
Episode 500 - Alaska gubernatorial candidate: Click Bishop
Click Bishop discusses his journey from gold mining and pipeline work to public service as a member of the Alaska State Senate. He breaks down Alaska's energy and resource challenges, including oil and gas production, pipeline economics, and energy security, along with priorities for education funding, vocational training, fisheries management, and rural needs. Bishop emphasizes bipartisan coopera
Episode 499 - Alaska gubernatorial candidate: Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins
In this episode, Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins discusses his Sitka roots, early interest in politics, and decision to run for governor of Alaska. JKT outlines policy priorities including protecting the Permanent Fund, closing oil tax loopholes, supporting fishing communities and fair representation on the Board of Fish, and expanding affordable housing.
Note: I have reached out to multiple candidates
Episode 498 - Will the public allow AI to ruin movies?
Ketchikan High School graduate Joey Karlik is an assistant to two literary managers in Beverly Hills and a filmmaker himself. In this episode we talk about how AI is impacting the film industry. We discuss ethical concerns about AI-generated performances and threats to jobs in production and representation. We also talk about social media hype, the future of movie theaters, recent must-see films,
Episode 497 - Ticks, turkey and real estate
In this episode, Jeff talks to Lou Tamposi talk about real estate, ticks, turkeys and food. Lou works in real estate and is an author and hunter in Massachusetts. He and Jeff host the Light Sear podcast on Substack.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.
Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebrush Dry (Alaskan-owned business that sells th
Episode 496 - Can Alaska solve its financial problems?
Larry Persily moved to Alaska in 1976 to buy the Wrangell Sentinel. In this episode he recounts a long career covering logging, fishing, and Alaska's dependency on oil. We also discusses Alaska’s fiscal challenges, the Permanent Fund dividend, declining oil production, debates over taxes and public services, and how social media and changing business models are threatening local news and community
Episode 495 - Sports movies and AI in the film industry
Dante Troina and Kody Malouf host The Cinema Cult Podcast. In this episode we discuss Major League, Bad News Bears, Moneyball, Hoosiers, the nostalgic human moments that make them resonate, and how film storytelling captures those emotions. We also talk about the impact of analytics and AI in sports, AI’s growing role in filmmaking and post-production, and the ethical and cultural questions that c
Episode 494 - Public lands, recreation and data centers
Travis Hall is the associate editor for Field and Stream. In this episode we discuss conservation writing, important issues, meaningful conversations about complex issues, his trip to the potential site of the Ambler Road and the amount of foreign mining companies looking to dig up American soil.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things A
Episode 493 - Journalism, Oil Spills, and Life on the Edge
In this episode journalist and author Tom Kizzia recounts his journey from arriving in Homer in the mid-1970s and reporting for the Anchorage Daily News. We discuss the newsroom environment, land management and oil politics of the 1980s, as well as his books, especially Pilgrim's Wilderness, his 2013 bestseller about a cruel patriarch who attempts to insulate his family from reality near the town
Episode 492 - Alaska Blade Works
Matt Deluca from Alaska Blade Works covers knife testing and iterations, field sharpening and maintenance, essential backcountry gear, rifle choices, and where to buy their products. We also discuss hunting sheep, populations and the incredible outdoor opportunities provided by living in Alaska.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Al
Episode 491 - Fly fishing set up for Bristol Bay
Dagen Walton is back to deep dive into fly fishing specifics. We start at the fly rod and work all the way through his preferences for big rainbows in Bristol Bay. We break down tactics, fly selection, managing line in varying depths and even luggage that anglers should own.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.
Thanks to the s
Episode 490 - Tongass Crossroads: Logging, Wildlife, and the Roadless Rule
This episode features a panel of Southeast Alaska locals—guides, hunters, and conservationists—discussing the Tongass National Forest. We discuss past logging impacts, the Roadless Rule, and transitioning to young-growth management. We also share stories about effects on salmon, deer, and bear habitat, the growth of tourism and recreation, and how upcoming public comment periods regarding the next
Episode 489 - Olympic Biathlon
In this episode, Olympic athlete Maxime Germain talks about helping the U.S. Olympic 4×7.5 km biathlon relay team record its best finish in history. We discuss his approach to the skiing and shooting elements of biathlon, the European attitude toward biathlon, and his journey from Juneau, to France, to Anchorage before graduating from West Anchorage High School. We also discuss the importance of h
Episode 488 - Fly fishing for steelhead and silvers
Brennen Schulz is a commercial fisherman and fishing guide who grew up in Ketchikan. In this episode we talk about the transition from gear fishing to fly fishing, flies, proper hook sets, conservation and the life of being a guide.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.
Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebrush Dry (Alaskan-owned busin
Episode 487 - Recreation and economics in Southeast Alaska
Dan Kirkwood works for SalmonState and in this episode we talk about forest management in Southeast Alaska, habitat for deer and salmon, the Tongass forest plan update, and the challenge of balancing logging, tourism, and local economies.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.
Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebrush Dry (Alaskan-owned
Episode 486 - A Father-Son Fishing Legacy on Bristol Bay
Indy and Dagen Walton talk about starting out commercial fishing in Kodiak then running drift boats and set nets in Bristol Bay. We cover community, conservation, crowded runs, permit changes, extreme weather, guide academies, sustainability and concerns about developments like the Pebble Mine.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alas
Episode 485 - Bristol Bay commercial and fly fishing
In this episode Dagen Walton shares his life on Bristol Bay—growing up commercial fishing, running a small fly‑fishing lodge, and guiding guests on world‑class fisheries. Trout Unlimited Alaska Communications Director Marian Giannulis is also with us and provides important stats about Bristol Bay. She explains HB 233 which would go a long way in protecting the region from mining that would severel
Episode 484 - Chickens, trout and eating moose
Kyle Wilkinson is a freshwater fishing guide and outdoors columnist for The Frontiersman newspaper in Wasilla. In this episode we discuss winter conditions, practical tips for preventing frozen pipes, moose roasts and creative game recipes. We also get into guiding, fly fishing patterns, small-scale farming and chicken care, and his work writing local features and columns.
Check out the On Step Al
Episode 483 - The future of Alaska commercial fishing
Patrick McCormick is a science teacher and commercial fisherman. In this episode we talk about fishing the Copper River Delta and Prince William Sound, permit economic, commercial and charter users, concerns about trawling, and the need for science-based management and local engagement.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.
Tha
Episode 482 - The need for obsession and fun
Journalist Katie Hill discusses her writing process, workforce reduction threatening a long-standing wildlife research center, and why federal science funding matters for hunters, habitat, and conservation policy. We also talk about balancing urgent conservation fights with keeping hunting accessible and fun to recruit and retain everyday outdoor participants.
Here are the links to the Meateater
Episode 481 - Tracking steelhead
University of Alaska-Fairbanks fisheries ecologist (steelhead expert) Michael Courtney talks about Alaska steelhead biology, tagging studies using pop-up satellite archival tags, and the unexpected westward migrations these repeat spawners take. We also cover predation risks, timing and river conditions, fishing methods, and how to follow ongoing research or contact the team for publications and d
Conservation Focus: Roadless Rule
This episode traces the history and impact of the Roadless Rule in the Tongass National Forest. Chris Wood, a key architect of the rule and President of Trout Unlimited, describes the conservation rationale, restoration work, partnerships with industry and local villages, and how balanced, collaborative solutions can protect fisheries while supporting rural economies.
Check out the On Step Alaska
Conservation Focus: Ambler Road
Fisheries scientist Kevin Fraley recounts fieldwork along the Dalton Highway investigating contaminants like mercury and PFAS, mining impacts along the proposed Ambler Road, access and conservation concerns, and fishing for Arctic Char.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.
Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebrush Dry (Alaskan-owned b
Conservation Focus: West Susitna Access
This episode explores the proposed West Susitna Access — a 100+ mile industrial corridor from Big Lake through roadless wetlands to exploratory mining claims — covering estimated costs, major bridge and maintenance concerns, and how the project was split between state agencies.
We discuss ecological risks to wetlands, salmon and lamprey habitat, impacts on hunting and fishing, community perspectiv
Conservation Focus: Mendenhall Wetlands
To close out the year I’m revisiting four critical habitat and conservation issues in Alaska.
This episode dives into the debate over a proposed second crossing through the Mendenhall wetlands in Juneau, Alaska. Local conservationists, hunters and bird experts discuss the ecological importance of the wetlands — a globally important stopover used by hundreds of thousands of migratory birds and ove
Episode 480 - Zodiac adventures and local life in Ketchikan
Delaney Murphy is the co-founder of Out To Sea Expeditions, a Zodiac‑based tour business in Ketchikan. In this episode we talk about why small, local experiences matter, tour logistics, and what makes Southeast Alaska unique—especially low‑tide. We also discuss supporting local businesses, and the importance of sustainable and regenerative tourism for the community.
Check out the On Step Alaska w
Episode 479 - Alaska's fishing future
In this episode David Bayes talks about the environmental impacts of bottom and midwater trawling in Alaska. He explains the political and regulatory powers that allow the staggering bycatch and waste of king salmon, halibut, crab, and whales.
More information is available on the STOP Alaska Trawl Bycatch page on Facebook
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles,
Episode 478 - Touring Misty Fjords with Allen Marine
Allen Marine was voted Ketchikan’s 2025 Business of the Year. In this episode I talk to Matthew and Emma about the company's humble $82 first season fifty years ago to a fleet of custom vessels running tours out of Ketchikan, Sitka and Juneau. The episode covers wildlife practices and Ketchikan-specific excursions, vessel lineup, and what makes the Misty Fjords a must-see.
Check out the On Step Al
Episode 477 - Calling Blacktail deer in Southeast Alaska
The episode covers calling tactics for Sitka Blacktail deer in Southeast Alaska. I talk about using a subtle call while approaching muskeg edges, the trade-off between waiting patiently at one spot versus covering more ground, and why confidence in your call matters.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.
Thanks to the sponsors:
Episode 476 - The case for a hot tent
In this episode Ryan Sapena from Seek Outside walks through his favorite tent setups — the Courthouse, Cimarron and the ultralight Silex — and explains liners, stove choices, and simple maintenance tips.
He also covers setup best practices and common mistakes (tensioning, guy-outs), condensation management, accessories, and buying advice including Black Friday sales and lead times.
Check out the O
Episode 475 - Why everyone should be an athlete
Steve Shannon is a former teacher turned strength coach in Fairbanks. In this episode we discuss why everyone should be an athlete with the goal of improving the quality of their lives, not just pursuing athletic achievements. He gives practical advice on training youth athletes, fueling performance with protein and sleep, and using simple habits "exercise snacks," and rucking to stay fit for hunt
Episode 474 - Can sugar-free protein bars taste good?
Atlas bar founder James Oliver talks about the motivation behind making a high‑protein, low‑sugar bar with real ingredients, grassroots sales at gyms, a 100‑mile running challenge eating only Atlas bars, and the importance of honesty when marketing. We also discuss the current state of metabolic health in America, craving challenges and information.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subsc
Episode 473 - Homesteading and self-sufficiency
Anna Sakawsky is the host of The Coop and editor of Homestead Living Magazine. In this episode she shares her journey from city life, practical tips for gardens, infrastructure, chickens, pest management, and cost-saving strategies.
We also cover food preservation (canning, fermenting, freeze-drying), dealing with failures, choosing starter animals, and what readers can expect from Homestead Livin
Episode 472 - Fly fishing and pollution above the Arctic Circle
In this episode Kevin Fraley talks about chasing brightly colored “pumpkin” Arctic char above the Arctic Circle. We also discuss his contaminant research along the Dalton Highway, concerns about the proposed Ambler Road, the rollback of the Central Yukon Resource Management Plan, and related impacts on fish, caribou, and local subsistence.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Subst
Episode 471 - Flightseeing and glacier landing
Udo Cassee is the owner of Sheldon Air Service in Talkeetna. In this episode we discuss year-round operations including flightseeing tours, ski-plane glacier landings, transporting Denali climbers, bear-viewing trips, and air taxi services. Udo explains his small-group approach, aircraft types (Cessna 185 and radial Beaver), and the legacy of Don Sheldon.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or su
Episode 470 - Outdoor analytics and reviews
Jack Westerheide discusses his path from marketing and consulting to building Scout, a platform for collecting authentic stories and research about hunting and fishing. We also discuss how social media, influencers, and AI reshape trust, gear reviews, industry dynamics, and why capturing real traditions and consumer insights matters for the future of the outdoors.
Check out the On Step Alaska webs
Episode 469 - Hunting moose and bison in Alaska
Alaska Wild Project's Daniel Buitrago recounts his brutal moose hunt that featured rain, flooded rivers, broken winches and bridge building. We also discuss plans for an upcoming bison float hunt, filming a feature for Alaska Wild Project, and community events and meetups for the hunting season.
Episode 468 - Sheep hunting with a 10-year old
Harrison Gottschling is back to recap his week-long backpack sheep hunt with his 10-year-old son. We discuss managing expectations, the lows of weathered-in tent days, gear choices, and parenting on the trail.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.
Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebrush Dry (Alaskan-owned business that sells the best
Episode 467 - Moose, deer and gear
Abby and I recap our blacktail deer season, my recent moose hunt and gear we have liked.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.
Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebrush Dry (Alaskan-owned business that sells the best dry bags you can buy.)
Alpine Fit (Premium outdoor layering from another Alaskan-owned business.)
Backcountry Hunters an
Episode 466 - Intentional living
In this episode Lou Tamposi and I discuss Substack, intentional eating, home-cooking tips, farmed seafood, buying directly from small farms, hunting and processing venison, simple recipes and balancing family life, fitness, and food choices. Lou's Substack is Cow-we-doin'.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.
Thanks to the spo
Episode 465 - The Roadless Rule
Trout Unlimited CEO Chris Wood discusses the history and impact of the Roadless Rule, the Tongass National Forest, and how roads and logging affect salmon habitat in Southeast Alaska. We talk about the rule’s origins, lessons learned over 25 years, the need for balanced local economies and recreation, and how collaborative restoration and thoughtful management can protect fish, communities, and su
Episode 464 - Wildfires, community and cortisol
Amanda Montei is a writer and former wildfire hot shot. In this episode we discuss her time fighting wildfires, growth through struggle, handling intense situations, community, and writing. Her podcast is called Life with Fire and her Substack is Little Fire Burning.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.
Thanks to the sponsors:
Episode 463 - Notching the tags
Since we didn't get into detail about the actual hunting, this episode is the play-by-play of the bucks the Bales brother tagged.
Episode 462 - Impressive feats, variation and attitude
Jaden, Tyler and discuss what makes hunts impressive, the importance of attitude, reputation, and personal quests. We also talk about the variety of hunts we did over their 10 days in Alaska and that it's okay to have fun and enjoy the experiences.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.
Click here for a 20% discount on an annual
Episode 461 - Hunting blacktail in Southeast Alaska
In this episode Jaden and Tyler Bales and I recap our first trip into the mountains for blacktail deer. We discuss the reality for locals who must travel by boat, truck or both to access hunting grounds, how AI is impacting the outdoor space, flooded tents and knowing when it's time to call it and get off the mountain.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, fe
Episode 460 - Road hunting and private equity
On this Opening Day road hunt, Abby and I discuss habitat and the impact of corporations and private equity on local business and outdoor companies.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.
Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn, the outdoor community’s newest newspaper.
Thanks to the sponsors:
Sagebr
Episode 459 - Alpine hunting logistics
Jaden Bales and his bother have never been to Alaska so in this episode Jaden and I talk expectations, logistics, gear and weather as he packs for the trip to hunting blacktail deer in Southeast Alaska.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.
Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn, the outdoor commu
Episode 458 - Remote cabin building in Alaska
Margaret Stern lives in Talkeetna, Alaska, and is preparing to build a cabin on her new property. In this episode we talk about her first project in the remote interior of Alaska, milling lumber, foundations, making adjustments, plans for the new cabin and unique property luxuries like DIY saunas.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things
Episode 457 - Dry cabins, public land and parenting
In this episode, Harrison Gottschling and I discuss the joys and trials of raising children in Alaska (particularly his life in a dry cabin), the attempted sale of public lands and making the most of daylight.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.
Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn, the outdoo
Episode 456 - Gear for hunting in Southeast Alaska
In this episode I go through my gear and approach to hunting deer in the alpine of Southeast Alaska. I discuss boots, socks, gaiters, pants, rain gear, base layer choice for cold, rainy weather, optics, tent location, terrain scouting and being ready before first light.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.
Click here for a 20%
Episode 455 - Camping with an 8 month old
Abby and I discuss navigating the challenges of camping with our 8-month-old. We break down hiking the West Glacier Spur and most of Thunder Mountain in Juneau. We talk essential gear, strategies for staying dry and warm, and developing confidence to continue to adventure though we have a baby.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Ala
Episode 454 - Tidewater fly fishing
Dave McKenna is the owner of Tidewater Flyfishing in Juneau. In this episode we discuss his start in fly fishing, transitioning into guiding, dealing with bears during fly outs, starting his own business and what you need to get started fly fishing.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.
Click here for a 20% discount on an annua
Episode 453 - Movies set/filmed in Alaska
In this episode, Dante Troina, Kody Malouf and I discuss Alaskan-themed movies, noting the romanticized vision many have of the state, and break down how authenticity plays a role in the perception of films set in Alaska.
We review movies such as Mystery, Alaska; The Proposal, Into the Wild, Grizzly Man, Insomnia, 30 Days of Night, On Deadly Ground and more.
Dante and Kody are life-long Alask
Episode 452 - West Susitna Access Road Project
Susitna River Coalition's Margaret Stern and I discuss the proposed 100-mile West Susitna Access Road Project that would cross the Susitna River. We explore the project's potential benefits, like increased access and growth, against its significant environmental impact, and other infrastructure projects that might be a better investment for the funds.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subsc
Episode 451 - Alaska mushrooms
Ecologist Kate Mohatt and I discuss all things mushrooms and her upcoming book "Mushrooms of Alaska" which will be available this summer. We discuss identification, harvesting, storing and pairing mushrooms.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.
Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn, the outdoor
Episode 450 - Mendenhall Wetlands
In this episode, Mary Glaves, Matt Robus, River Gates, Chris Hoon and I discuss the proposed second crossing in Juneau and its potential impact on the Mendenhall Wetlands.
We explore the historical significance and the ecological value of the Mendenhall Wetlands which is a globally important bird area and a critical stopover for migratory birds.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe o
Episode 449 - Homer wine
In this episode Louie Maurer from Bear Creek Winery in Homer and I discuss how fruits like raspberries, blueberries, and rhubarb are transformed into exquisite wines. We break down wine pairings as well as life in Homer.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.
Click here for a 20% discount on an annual subscription to The Westrn,
Episode 448 - Hump Island Oysters
Jacinda Leighton is a 2018 graduate of Ketchikan High School who earned a degree in economics from Fort Lewis College in Colorado. She is now the business manager for Hump Island Oyster Company in Ketchikan. In this episode we discuss the life cycle of oysters, farming kelp, living with passion rather than waiting to discover a passion, and the satisfaction of having a career in her hometown.
Che
Episode 447 - Big Wild Life
In this episode I preview my latest book, Big Wild Life, which will be released on Friday, May 9. The book is an account of living in Alaska that includes stories from high school, home building, teaching, travel around the state and two major themes: Alaska as a proving ground/setting for adventure and difficult elements of conservation.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Subst
Episode 446 - Officiating basketball in Alaska
Zoe Krupa is a resident of Sitka and was recently a lead official at the 1a/2a state basketball tournament in Anchorage. In this episode we discuss growing up in Southeast, coaching vs. officiating, officiating rivalries and the time she gave her dad a technical foul.
Check out the On Step Alaska website or subscribe on Substack for articles, features and all things Alaska.
Click here for a 20%
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