Next Level Skiing
Next Level Skiing is a podcast about skiing. Your skiing. Longtime ski journalist Jason Blevins talks to the sport’s luminaries and behind-the-scenes bosses about strategies and hacks for stepping your skiing up a notch. Sure, the key to getting better at skiing is to go skiing. A lot. If it was only that easy. This podcast will offer some shortcuts to becoming the skier you want to be, without having to quit your job and move to a ski town. Subscribe where ever you get your podcasts by searching for “Next Level Skiing.” Learn more at wagnerskis.com/nextlevel.
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Building a relationship with fear with Kristen Ulmer
03/03/2025
Building a relationship with fear with Kristen Ulmer
Welcome back to the Next Level Skiing podcast, brought to you by Wagner Skis. Today’s guest is Kristen Ulmer, who is one of the most accomplished big mountain skiers ever. She is now a fear and anxiety expert, helping her clients overcome disabling confusion or chaos. After studying Zen concepts for more than a decade, she authored “” as a guidebook for improved mindfulness. Her three-day Fear Ski Camps at Alta are renowned for helping skiers improve their athletic performance and bury the fear and anxiety that can hinder, not just skiing, but living. Take her on her website. Her decades-long reign as one of the top female skiers in the world has transferred over to expertise in helping people foster stronger mindsets, find flow states, and improve their health and happiness. Topics: 2:00: First full season skiing in Little Cottonwood Canyon after growing up in New Hampshire 4:00: Skiing all day, working in banquets at the Cliff Lodge, competing in moguls comps 5:00: Transitioning from moguls to big-mountain in the early 90s 6:20: “No girls were doing that back then.” 7:50: Studying the Eastern approach to fear and readjusting relationships with fear 09:45: Finding flow state through fear. “We are stronger together than apart” 11:50: Interviews with top action sports athletes 16:00: The problem with resisting fear 18:25: Intimacy with fear manifests as focus 21:30: Performance-enhancing relationships with fear 27:40: Ski camps at Alta 34:50: Three themes in why we love skiing Quotes: “I was just trying to hang out with friends and have a good time with friends and go on the trips with them. And I really didn’t have any goals in skiing, but the next thing you know, I wound up on the US ski team for moguls.” - Kristen Ulmer “We probably should define that [extreme sports] mean that the consequences of failure are death or injury. That’s what makes something extreme.” - Kristen Ulmer “What he has is, he has a willingness to feel fear. He’s young, hungry, and talented. He’s stepping 4% out of his comfort zone every day, connecting the dots. This is how y ou become better at anything.” - Kristen Ulmer Resources:
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Keep it Fun With Your Hands up with Kim Beekman
03/04/2024
Keep it Fun With Your Hands up with Kim Beekman
Welcome back to the Next Level Skiing podcast, brought to you by Wagner Skis! A few years ago I got to join Kim Beekman on a ski trip to the San Juans. We skied at and around Telluride and all over Red Mountain Pass. I don’t think she ever wondered why everyone always wanted to ski those backcountry lines before her. It was because we all wanted to get down and watch her ski. Few ski with more grace, ease, and power than Kim. She is a flawless skier. And an incredible writer. As the editor at Skiing and a longtime ski journalist, she has shepherded years of ski reviews, charting the evolution of ski design for decades. She’s raised an amazing daughter who rips and has all sorts of insights into making the most of our time on snow. Tune in and learn from a master. Thanks for listening to Next Level Skiing. Topics: 3:40 Growing up chasing her older brother 2:50 The secret sauce of being a good skier: having a ripping older sibling 3:55 Honing her writing chops at the Jackson Hole Guide in the 1990s 6:36 What makes a good ski story? 7:50 Her new children’s book about Hilaree Nelson 11:10 The emergence of rocker and shape in skis 18:30 Her favorite ski designs 21:50 Raising young rippers. Candy bribery. 26:00 When ski skills spill over into life 30:30 Hands up! Resources:
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This is My Purpose with Aaron Blunck
02/26/2024
This is My Purpose with Aaron Blunck
Welcome back to the Next Level Skiing podcast, brought to you by Wagner Skis. I love watching Aaron Blunck ski the pipe. The Crested Butte native has spent 26 of his 27 years on skis and it shows, with amazing airs and unrivaled style. Earlier this season I got to see Aaron ski in the Copper pipe and he was throwing this ridiculously cool pipe-grinding, snow-spraying slash in the middle of his run, and the crowd loved it. This is a fun chat with the three-time Olympian who grew up dreaming of competing in the X Games, which he won in 2017. He spent his younger years chasing his older brother Nolan around the steeps of Crested Butte Mtn Resort, where he honed his aerial prowess in gnarly cliffs and trees. Listen and learn from one of Colorado’s best as Aaron shares insights into bouncing back from injuries, the relentless pursuit of new challenges in skiing, celebrating every turn, and embracing gratitude on snow. Thanks for listening to Next Level Skiing. Topics: 2:00 - Copper performance 4:49 - Skiing at 18 months 5:24 - Chasing his older brother 7:21 - Unlocking a new wave of younger rippers at Crested Butte 9:10 - Big mountain laps with pipe and terrain park to finish 11:00 - Still living the dream 13:40 - Not just skiing: hockey, baseball, soccer 17:25 - Pay to play: injuries and recovery 22:00 - Mind over matter to bounce back from injuries 24:24 - Overcoming the life-changing injury 26:00 - Why not go skiing? 28:00 - This is my purpose 30:00 - Never stop learning new things 32:00 - Little-kid cruising and embracing gratitude Resources:
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Reggie Crist is The Stoke Broker
02/20/2024
Reggie Crist is The Stoke Broker
Welcome back to the Next Level Skiing podcast, brought to you by Wagner Skis. Reggie Crist keeps turning the page on one skiing’s most illustrious careers. A decade on the U.S. Ski Team. Pioneer in the Olympic spot of Ski Cross. One of the first to helicopter skiers into Alaska’s Chugachs. And now a globe-trotting ski guide whose Stellar Adventure brings skiers to Japan, South America, Alaska and the backcountry of Idaho. Tune in as Reggie tells us where he would take us if we win the lottery and want to spend an entire year crushing powder. Topics: 2:30 - Raised in California and Idaho 3:30 - Earning a PhD in skiing on the U.S. Ski Team 5:10 - Ski Cross and a second ski racing career 6:20 - Ski Cross is more intense than downhill racing Kitzbuhel 7:00 - Stellar Adventure 11:00 - Bringing ski racing technique to the big mountains of Alaska 12:30 - A year in powder 16:49 - Best way to prepare for a month in Alaska 18:30 - Alaska off the couch 22:32 - Catching the Santa Rosa storm in the Andes 26:50 - The rewards of helping people find their best ski day 29:30 - Follow your passion and be a stoke broker Resources:
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Master The Smooth with Scot Schmidt
02/13/2024
Master The Smooth with Scot Schmidt
It’s difficult to overstate the role of Scot Schmidt in big-mountain freeskiing. He pretty much invented the niche with his explosive, airborne exploits. His signature tucked-knees hop turn and high-speed hip-check smear on 223 downhill skis defined a style that changed skiing. Scot’s style inspired untold hordes of skiers in the 80s and early 90s, before skis got wide and rockered. His breakout role in Greg Stump’s seminal “Blizzard of Ahhs” ushered in a now 30-year-old era of ski porn. Scot at age 62 is still skiing 100 days a year on big, stiff skis, spending his winters in Montana as an ambassador for the Yellowstone Club. In this episode of Next Level Skiing, the legend himself shares insights into his longevity, his ski style, starring in a movie that captured entire generations of skiers, and “flowing like water” on skis. Topics: 2:00 - Growing up in Montana City, Montana 4:30 - Moving to Squaw Valley, melding with ski racers and speed skiers 9:30 - Idolizing Ingemar Stenmark 11:00 - About that smear turn 14:40 - Put your turns in the sweet spot 19:30 - Still riding a 195 115mm-underfoot Stockli 23:40 - Never been smoother than now 25:30 - The impact of “Blizzard of Ahhs” 28:50 - Keep it smooth and flow like water Resources:
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Feel It All with Drew Petersen
02/07/2024
Feel It All with Drew Petersen
There are a lot of great ski movies out there. But only one ranks as the most important. In a year when U.S. suicides reached record highs and many mountain towns are reporting the highest suicide rates in the country, Drew Peterson’s “Ups + Downs” exposes the professional skier’s anguished struggle with suicidal thoughts. Mental health is at a critical crossroads in mountain valleys and Peterson’s willingness to step up and reveal his own battles with overwhelming darkness is one of the most consequential moves in the history of ski movies. Skiing is awesome. It can help people learn how to be mindful and present. It can recharge weary souls. But it cannot heal mental illness. Drew’s turn toward therapy and the hard work required to deflect demons is a guiding light for people who can’t escape the darkness. Drew’s upcoming movie details his turn toward 100-mile ultramarathons as he continues his journey. This is a special Next Level Skiing podcast where Colorado-born Drew shares how skiing is only one tool for rebuilding a life. If you or anyone you know is in need of immediate help, call 988 to reach trained crisis workers at the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or text HOME to 741741. Topics: 2:00 - The 20-year overnight success story 6:40 - Ski the Wild West 11:00 - Raw expose with “Ups + Downs” 12:30 - The falling rock that “changed the track of my life.” 18:00 - Skiing can’t be the only thing 20:40 - Let skiing just be skiing and find childhood joy 21:40 - The destination fallacy 24:45 - Finding mindfulness and presence on skis 28:05 - Shining the light in a darker corner of mountain culture 33:35 - Ski and enjoy Resources: If you or anyone you know is in need of immediate help, call 988 to reach trained crisis workers at the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or text HOME to 741741.
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Gamifying skiing with Ted Ligety
01/30/2024
Gamifying skiing with Ted Ligety
Today on the Next Level Skiing podcast, brought to you by Wagner Skis, Jason chats with American gold-medal Olympic ski racer Ted Ligety. In 2011, Ted Ligety put the FIS on blast for the governing body’s new mandates for ski lengths, saying the rules would “will eventually ruin this sport.” The following seasons, as he skied longer GS boards, he earned the nickname “Mr. GS,” winning six World Cup races in 2013 and three in 2014 on his way to his second Olympic gold at the Sochi Games. Ligety is a renowned technician on skis with highly angulated hips, knees, and ankles. His seen-everywhere images of his hips skimming smooth snow at ungodly speeds are inspiring. For this chapter of Next Level Skiing, Ligety talks about how he adapted to longer skis, founding Shred Optics, and what he’s learned most recently from the “ski coach in his boots.” Topics: 1:40 - Ted’s background and journey to the slopes 6:31 - Scrapping with FIS over new rules for ski lengths 8:11 - Libertarian ski rules 09:30 - Perfect storm of ski design and technique 11:00 - Summer testing with 70 pairs of new GS skis in New Zealand 13:40 - Weight training leading into the best season ever 14:15 - Starting Shred Optics 20:35 - The Carv footbed coach gamifies skiing 23:20 - Angling edges at the top of the turn and shins parallel 25:30 - A coach in your ski boots 30:00 - Hamstring curls on the inside leg of your ski turn Resources:
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Anticipation and Innovation with Dan English
01/23/2024
Anticipation and Innovation with Dan English
Dan English was making waves in the world of high-tech when he veered into a new career focused on one of the oldest fabrics in the world. Today, the founder, president, and CEO of Colorado-based has infused the foundational principles of the technology industry into a clothing company that is changing how we think about wool and overhauling stagnant domestic manufacturing. On this episode of Next Level Skiing, Dan riffs on how the precepts of technological innovation can be applied to textiles and clothing, the best way to layer for an active day on snow, and how Voormi is moving on its mission to change the narrative around our clothing. Topics: 2:00 - A lifetime in tech in Seattle 7:20 - R&D testing at Wolf Creek ski area 8:50 - Core construction and Voormi’s technology 10:20 - Domestic manufacturing for Voormi doubled in 2023 and will double again in 2024 13:00 - Applying technology rules to textiles and clothing 16:00 - New tech coming from Voormi will reduce the water needed for coloring and dyeing 19:20 - Making clothing adaptive for each user 25:30 - Layering and the right clothing for outdoor adventure in winter Resources:
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Kim Grant: Just Breathe
01/15/2024
Kim Grant: Just Breathe
Welcome back to the Next Level Skiing podcast, brought to you by Wagner Skis. If you’ve ever crowded into the snowy, frigid lift line at the base of Silverton Mountain in the morning as groups are divided by skill level, you’ve likely heard requests for Kim Grant. “Is Kim working?” “Where’s Kim’s group?” The 25-year ski guide who moves between the rowdy San Juans and the Chugachs in Alaska knows how to settle skier jitters like no other. Her relaxed vibe in stout terrain has led countless skiers to their best day ever. She has all kinds of strategies for helping skiers find inner strengths and push themselves into the steepest and deepest. And it all starts with breathing. Topics: 2:43 - College in Georgia, summers in Colorado 5:14 - Telluride ski patrol to Silverton Mountain 6:52 - Facets of the San Juans, the most dangerous snowpack 10:55 - Slow down and take breaths 11:22 - Shed layers 13:32 - One turn at a time 15:52 - Yoga and breathing for focus during the fight-or-flight response 25:45 - The most amazing tool for centering, focusing on fun 29:15 - Big changes for Silverton Mountain 31:30 - Look where you want to go Resources:
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Adrian Ballinger: Putting Work Into Fun
02/27/2023
Adrian Ballinger: Putting Work Into Fun
Welcome back to the Next Level Skiing podcast, brought to you by Wagner Skis. Adrian Ballinger is one of the most knowledgable people out on the mountains today. He is a triple threat: lifelong skier, veteran on technical rock, and a master at high altitude descent. He is one of the world’s top ski mountaineer. He has many accomplishments under his belt. He has summited Everest and K2 without supplemental oxygen, was the first to ski descent of Manaslu (8th tallest peak in world) from the summit, founded Alpenglow Expeditions (which now takes 6000+ people a year skiing, climbing and mountaineering), and has had seventeen summits of 8000-meter peaks. In May of 2022, he became the first person to ski from Makalu (in the Mahalangur Himalayas) which is the fifth highest peak in the world. I had the pleasure of chatting with Adrian about his three attempts on Makalu, his risk tolerance now that he’s a new father, and how to make sure the first turn is perfect. Topics: [01:36] Adrian’s introduction [03:17] How Adrian got started and a snapshot of his career [12:50] Skiing Makalu [20:40] Risk tolerance [25:10] The mental and physical limitations of being so high up [32:15] The idea that it’s okay to back off [34:00] Practice everything [37:00] Switching mindsets and cherishing the mundane [42:30] Conclusion Resources:
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Mark Morris: An Ambassador To Life
02/20/2023
Mark Morris: An Ambassador To Life
Welcome back to the Next Level Skiing podcast, brought to you by Wagner Skis. Today I’m talking with rock star Mark Morris. He talks about the connection between his music and the mountains. He teaches us how he tries to be a good ambassador for life. Mark talks about trail running, how he comes up with his songs, and how he improved as a skier and as a musician. There are many ways that music and skiing overlap. Between connecting in a spiritual way to the importance of practice, Mark shares how his passions intersect throughout his life. Topics: [01:41] Mark’s introduction [03:41] How Mark got started on skis [09:15] Learning how to improve skills with exposure [11:44] Getting into music [16:05] How music and skiing overlap [31:00] Trail running techniques [33:00] On the “runner’s high” [36:15] How music and skiing have enriched Mark’s life [40:48] Conclusion Resources:
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Angela Hawse : Finding Your Center
02/13/2023
Angela Hawse : Finding Your Center
Welcome back to the Next Level Skiing podcast, brought to you by Wagner Skis. Today’s guest is Angela Hawse. Angela is an award-winning guide, an alpinist, a sponsored athlete, a motivational speaker, and a recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Mountain Guide Association. Angela is the second woman in history to achieve that award. She has taken a stand for women in skiing and when speaking about climate change. Angela brings her unique experience as a skier and a climber when she shares her stories about women on the mountains. Topics: [02:39] Angela’s introduction to skiing and her journey to being a guide [12:00] The evolution of women in skiing [13:00] Challenges for women in skiing [20:20] Making adjustments so we can better enjoy ourselves in the snow [27:00] The advantage of having a coach [30:15] Tools for safety and fitness [36:30] On what it is like receiving a lifetime achievement award [39:19] Giving back with “Protect Our Winters” [44:45] The future in the climbing and skiing industries [46:05] Conclusion Resources:
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Steve Casimiro: The Transformation of Skiing
02/06/2023
Steve Casimiro: The Transformation of Skiing
Welcome back to the Next Level Skiing podcast, brought to you by Wagner Skis. Today I’m talking with the legendary Steve Casimiro. Steve harkens back to the skiing comeback of the 1990s. His unwavering love of skiing shines bright as we talk about everything from what skiing was like in the late 80s to what it is like now, and our responsibilities when it comes to climate issues. There are many ways to help others including respecting others, spreading positivity, and really thinking about how you are valuing your time. Topics: [01:37] Introduction to the resurgence of skiing in the 90s [04:00] Steve’s intro into skiing [07:35] Skiing in the late 80s [13:15] Recognizing the transformation in skiing in the 90s [16:50] Skiing with skiers with more experience [23:24] Skiing changing with the times [31:00] Adventure skiing [32:00] From promoting people the respecting people [37:00] Opportunities to share your enthusiasm and [47:30] Acting on big problems, including climate issues [52:00] Your time has value [54:00] Conclusion Resources:
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Nader Jamal: Empowerment Through Skiing
01/30/2023
Nader Jamal: Empowerment Through Skiing
Welcome back to the Next Level Skiing podcast, brought to you by Wagner Skis. Today I’m talking with Nader Jamal about how to feel empowered while you’re on the powder. Nader’s been through a lot in his life. Today he shares tips on how to be more confident while you’re on the slopes. He also shares some of his story and the lessons he learned while fighting off cancer and teaching the youth of America how to stay upright while on the snow or in the water. He also emphasizes the importance of learning how to fall. In real life and while you’re on skis (or on a stand-up paddleboard), sometimes it’s how you take the fall that can teach you the most about confidence and what you’re capable of. Topics: [3:00] Growing up with Palestinian parents in New York [4:40] Taking skills from the terrain park into big mountain [5:50] Learning how to ski switch [7:30] Relaxing on rails [10:00] Similarities in stand-up paddling and skiing [11:40] The role of confidence and recognizing physical cues that can shift confidence [15:58] Crossover skills between SUP, skiing and park [19:35] Being loose, playful and vulnerable [20:20] Don’t fight the fall [22:55] Nader’s cancer fight at 21 and his introduction to outdoor adventure [24:25] A whitewater trip to Montana with First Descents after Stage 3 colon cancer diagnosis [27:00] Being the connector for others seeking outdoor adventure and experiences [28:45] It’s OK to fall. Welcome it. [30:50] The motivation of learning with a group [34:10] Developing self-expression in skiing through teamwork [36:30] Conclusion Resources:
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Krista Crabtree: The Strength Of Femininity
01/24/2023
Krista Crabtree: The Strength Of Femininity
Welcome back to the Next Level Skiing podcast, brought to you by Wagner Skis. Today I have to pleasure of sharing my conversation with Krista Crabtree. Krista has spent decades introducing women to skiing via her 'She Skiis' clinics. From the beginning of her career, she has tracked the evolution of women’s ski gear and because of that, she’s an expert on the topic. From design to material to shape, Krista knows exactly how skis will perform on the snow. In this episode, Krista and I talk about women in skiing and the evolution of women’s ski gear. There have been a lot of gender politics in skiing and Krista shares some of her stories as a woman in the industry. We’re seeing plenty of positive changes in skiing, but there’s still plenty we can do to get more amazing women in the spotlight. Topics: [01:31] Krista Crabtree Introduction [03:23] Krista’s skiing journey [08:00] The evolution of women’s ski equipment [13:30] Ski instruction for men versus women [16:52] Five tips that resonate with everyone [27:05] How gear can enable women [30:00] Upcoming advances in women’s gear [35:41] Seeing more women on the slopes [44:10] The importance of having an outlet like skiing [45:15] Conclusion
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Lee Cohen: The Cosmic Release
01/10/2023
Lee Cohen: The Cosmic Release
Welcome back to the Next Level Skiing podcast, brought to you by Wagner Skis. On today’s episode, I have the pleasure of talking with powder photographer extraordinaire, Lee Cohen. Lee came to Utah in the 1980s as a ski bum and found his calling. He and his friends traveled from Utah down to California and beyond, chasing the snow and powder and photographing the experience. Today we’re talking about how Lee got his start in skiing and photography as well as his journey to being one of the most well-known foremost photographers the snow has ever seen. He also talks about how he first pushed back on the transition to digital photography and his thoughts on it now. Lee shares some tips on how to get the best pictures when you’re out on the slopes and tips on skiing which he’d gleaned from the pros. Topics: [00:24] Lee Cohen’s introduction to skiing [08:57] Salt Lake City [10:00] Lee’s start in photography [12:46] Lee’s first cover photo [13:29] Lee’s ah-ha moment in photography [14:32] The transition to digital [17:37] Tips for big snow [23:40] How to shoot better skiing photos [32:10] What excites Lee about skiing
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Chris “Tats” Tatsuno: A Lot Less Ego, A Lot More Amigo
01/03/2023
Chris “Tats” Tatsuno: A Lot Less Ego, A Lot More Amigo
Welcome back to the Next Level Skiing podcast, brought to you by Wagner Skis. Today’s I’m talking with Chris “Tats” Tatsuno. Chris has an infectious way of making a turn in snow and he certainly shares it with everyone around him. It’s impossible not to have a good time when you’re riding around with Chris. Chris has his own style, his own look, and he is a wonderful influence on the youth of the industry through instruction and inspiration. He doesn’t put a lot of pressure on the snow and on himself. Chris gives us some tips he learned from his dad, as well as a few of the lessons he’s learned from his own journey. From spending time with a crew you love, to his tips on how you can take it easy on your joints so you can ski until you’re 90, Chris shares a lot of great info today. Topics: [00:00] Introduction to Season 5 [03:00] Chris’ introduction [04:00] Chris’ background and how he got into skiing [05:50] What it was like growing up with a ski instructor [08:21] Skiing vs snowboarding in the late 80s and early 90s [14:11] How Chris ended up in Roaring Fork Valley, Colorado [18:35] The Aspen Ripper Factory and the Aspen ski gangs [28:45] Spending time with a crew that you enjoy [30:20] Becoming a ski instructor [36:26] Chris’ style and look [42:00] Be the watcher [44:43] Advice that still resonates with Chris [48:18] Conclusion Resources:
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Channeling Your Warrior with Michelle Parker
01/04/2022
Channeling Your Warrior with Michelle Parker
Welcome back to the Next Level Skiing podcast, brought to you by Wagner Skis. On today’s episode, I have the pleasure of talking with California badass, Michelle Parker. Michelle is an amazing skier with excellent form. If you have the chance to watch her ski, watch how she shreds with her feet; she is amazing. There are few skiers out there who have the speed and footwork of Michelle. Michelle shares some great lessons and messages including the importance of visualization and how to develop your inner warrior. She also emphasizes how important it is to be aware of your surroundings, mapping the mountain, and trusting your intuition. California native Michelle Parker started skiing in her home resort of Squaw Valley Ski Resort. Since then, she’s competed in the US Freeskiing open, X-Games, and the Red Bull Cold Rush. She’s also one of the founders of Skiers Advocating and Fostering Education for Avalanche and Snow Safety (S.A.F.E.A.S.), whose goal is to advocate for snow safety and avalanche awareness. Topics: [02:00] Michelle’s footwork on the snow [03:00] How Michelle started skiing [05:25] Michelle’s first experiences with freeskiing [07:57] Skills that she transferred from racing to freeskiing [10:45] Moving to the big mountains [12:15] Avalanche education [17:40] What Michelle thinks of when she’s up top and waiting her turn [18:30] How to tap into your inner warrior [23:50] The importance of realizing legitimate fears and being confident in your intuition [27:50] How to develop a strong intuition [29:50] Advice that still resonates with Michelle [31:40] Surrounding yourself with incredible athletes (on the screen and in real life) Resources:
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Appreciation And Gratitude with Mark Abma
12/28/2021
Appreciation And Gratitude with Mark Abma
Welcome back to the Next Level Skiing podcast, brought to you by Wagner Skis. Today, we’ve got a great conversation with a great guest. There aren’t that many high profile skiers out there, who are as thoughtful and introspective as Mark Abma. Mark is an inspiring athlete with a unique outlook on how to improve performance, training, and mindset. From keeping things in perspective when he’s on top of a mountain to hydrotherapy, Mark talks about what has shaped him as a skier and as a person. Mark Abma is a professional freeskier. From Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia, he was born for the snow. He has a number of awards under his belt including the Powder Video Award for Best Male Performance in 2007 and 2005. He also won Best Natural Air in 2010, and Best Powder in 2009. He recently started an advocacy group called One Step with the goal of helping both ski resorts and skiers reduce their carbon footprints. Topics: [02:11] How Mark started skiing [07:00] Mogul skiing helping with the transition [12:35] What Mark learned from his idols when he was a kid [16:28] How competing led to films [22:25] Mark’s mental game when he gets dropped off on a mountain [25:45] A piece of advice Mark goes back to [27:00] Recovery and hydrotherapy [33:50] Lactic training [36:05] Lessons on the snow, transcending into everyday life Resources:
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Be Your Own Expert with Dr. Allen Lim
12/21/2021
Be Your Own Expert with Dr. Allen Lim
Welcome back to the Next Level Skiing podcast, brought to you by Wagner Skis. Skiing is about more than just strapping on some equipment and hitting the slopes. Here at Next Level Skiing we want to focus on everything that can affect your ski game. In this episode, sports physiologist Dr. Allen Lim talks to us about how nutrition can affect how you ski. Dr. Lim covers a lot of ground, from fueling your body, to helping your body recover, to staying healthy all year long. Dr. Allen Lim is a sports physiologist, cycling coach, and a founder of Skratch Labs. Scratch Labs is a manufacturer of performance hydration mixes. He has worked with dozens of top American cyclists to improve their performance and nutrition. Today he is here to help skiers with the same type of information that he gives to cyclists. While cycling and skiing aren’t exactly the same in terms of what it requires of your body, they do have some overlap. Topics: [01:48] How Dr. Lim got started in athletic medicine and physiology [03:45] Unhealthy American food culture: Ethnocentric versus Technocentric [07:22] How to improve your skiing through nutrition [13:45] The type of food to eat after skiing [17:20] The importance of staying hydrated and listening to your thirst [20:27] How to prepare your body for altitude changes [26:00] The nutritional approach to keeping our head in the game while on the snow [30:00] Hunger and exercise [34:32] A piece of advice that still resonates with Dr. Lim [38:14] Beer and skiing [40:15] Summary and last words Resources:
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Get Out Of Your Own Way with Alex Cohen
12/14/2021
Get Out Of Your Own Way with Alex Cohen
Welcome back to the Next Level Skiing podcast, brought to you by Wagner Skis. Today we are talking with Alex Cohen. Not only is he a sports psychologist for the US Olympic and Paralympic Teams, he also has a lot to share with everyday skiers. In this episode, Alex talks about the importance of having a game plan, getting out of your own way, and the myths about flowstate. He talks about how Olympians get to where they are and how he got to where he is in life. Alex has learned a lot over the years and shares some of that knowledge with you today. This is sure to be an episode with so many takeaways, you’ll have to listen to it more than once. Alex Cohen, the senior sports psychologist for the US Olympic and Paralympic Teams. Alex dives in deep with the team when it comes to mental strategies, mindfulness, and other skills that can transfer over to their daily lives. Topics: [02:25] How Alex got into skiing and started working with Olympians [03:45] Sports psychology on the ski-lifts [12:44] External focus cues in order to execute good technique [13:50] Getting out of your own way [17:13] Training mindsets and flipping that switch [19:15] Flowstate [23:17] Recovery after injury [29:18] Alex’s personal skiing habits [29:49] A piece of advice that resonates through Alex’s life [33:20] Summary and conclusion Resources: Alex Cohen Twitter: “
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Think Past the Fear with Julian Carr
12/07/2021
Think Past the Fear with Julian Carr
Welcome back to the Next Level Skiing podcast, brought to you by Wagner Skis. Thinking through the fear with Julian Carr. One of the great things about skiing is that we can apply the lessons we’ve learned on snow and adapt them to our whole life. Today is no exception. Julian talks about how he gets air, how he got started, and what goes into finding the right conditions. As a natural talent, Julian has a unique and positive perspective on both skiing and life. We’ve all seen the pictures. X-Games GOLD Medalist Julian Carr is known as one of the skiers who gets the biggest air. It’s almost as if he’s out there to prove that flying and skiing aren’t two different things. Julian’s lofty exploits have landed him in Warren Miller films. He’s also received “Photo of the Year” from Powder Magazine, the Sickbird Award on the Freeskiing World Tour, and holds two world records in cliff jumps. He’s an ambassador for Protect Our Winters and Climate Reality Project. He’s also a board member for the Lands Conservation Foundation. He founded Discrete Clothing. He also founded the Cirque Series, which is a mountain running series that’s in its fourth season. Topics: [02:00] How Julian got started skiing and getting height [06:00] Being a natural skier and specific his skill set [08:10] Baby steps to getting air [14:00] What goes into finding the right conditions [24:25] Working through the fear [25:45] Patience and recognizing the gap between desire and ability [29:30] How to know when you’re ready [31:10] Advice that still resonates [33:20] Summary and conclusion Resources:
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Skiing Is An Art Form with Lorraine Huber
11/30/2021
Skiing Is An Art Form with Lorraine Huber
Welcome back to the Next Level Skiing podcast, brought to you by Wagner Skis. Today, I’m chatting with Lorraine Huber, an Australian skier who has made a career off of making skiing look easy. She’s done it all, from big mountain skiing and competitions, to guiding and becoming a mental coach. And she doesn’t just teach the pros; she’s teaching everyone how to find poise and grace out on the slopes amidst all this chaos. Lorraine is a professional skier from Lech am Arlberg. She is a freeride world champion and is now giving back to the skiing community by becoming a mental coach. She helps skiers become inspired and fall in love with the process. Listen in as she shares her insights on the mental games that occur on the snow, and how to turn our focus to the process of learning through visualization and meditation. Lorraine also offers suggestions on how we can find our flow state. Topics: [01:30] How Lorraine got started in skiing [08:10] The transition process of big mountain skiing to mental coach [12:25] Strategies for quieting your mind [18:51] Finding your flow state [25:35] What to focus on: growing and learning the process [27:59] How to reprogram your brain [33:15] Internal versus extrinsic motivation [34:29] What can come to us when we’re in that flow state [37:27] Lorraine’s skiing buddies and how they helped her [40:00] A lesson that still resonates with Lorraine [42:00] Lorraine’s YouTube channel [42:42] Summary of the big lessons from this episode Resources:
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Finesse Over Power with Chris Anthony
11/23/2021
Finesse Over Power with Chris Anthony
Welcome back to the Next Level Skiing podcast, brought to you by Wagner Skis. Today’s guest is a skiing veteran with amazing stories and lessons to share. I’m sure all of you know the name Chris Anthony. In this episode, Chris shares so many of his experiences and tips including how early he started skiing, hard ski lessons, how to ski with an injury, and stories from movie sets. From Warren Miller to Mt. Mangart, he is no stranger to film or the snow. Chris also shares his opinions on how and why skiing has changed over the years. Has it been for the better? How have these technological changes helped injured skiers? Not to mention, we dive into the basics of skiing, because sometimes we need to be reminded that skiing isn’t about being the strongest. A lot of the challenge of skiing happens in your mind… and also on your knees. Is it possible to ski with a knee injury? Chris Anthony does it all: award winning skier, ski personality, trainer, guide, and motivational speaker. Chris was also inducted into the Colorado Snowsports Hall of Fame in 2018, is an award-winning documentary producer, director, writer, and editor, and was featured in 28 Warren Miller films. Topics: [00:55] How Chris got into skiing [05:15] Evolving times for skiing and ski gear [09:10] Chris’ lessons from his movie career [12:00] On bad habits and trying to get rid of them [14:25] Skiing while injured [21:44] Knee replacement and returning to skiing [26:09] Tips for skiing with knee pain [28:47] Ski gear that won’t bother your knees [31:33] Off the wall racing [35:05] Lasting advice from early in Chris’ career [36:11] Mission Mt. Mangart film and the history of skiing [41:56] Summary and thanks Resources:
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Keep It Simple, with Daron Rahlves
11/16/2021
Keep It Simple, with Daron Rahlves
Welcome back to the Next Level Skiing podcast, brought to you by Wagner Skis. We have quite the treat for you today as our guest is the legendary–the most decorated American, male downhiller ever–Daron Rahlves. Four time Olympian. Twenty-eight world cup podiums. A dozen world cup victories. Seven national titles. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Daron is already helping out future generations of skiers with his series on YouTube. Today he brings a few of those tips with him as well as some great advice and fantastic stories. There are so many takeaways from today’s episode, from tips on developing confidence, to technical advice about balance, and big lessons he’s learned from his journey to the top. Topics: [01:00] Daron’s accolades and journey [02:20] From Ski-Tips to Mortal Tips [06:55] How do we develop confidence [09:43] Technical tip about balance: “From the snow up” [13:00] The importance of knowing the line [19:55] Find a mentor and follow the good guys [22:10] How Daron adjusted his ski style for the film, Chasing the LIne [30:55] How skiing has developed over the years [35:00] How Red Bull treats the athletes they sponsor [41:50] The fastest time at Birds of Prey and other records [45:40] Advice from Daron’s youth which still resonates with him [47:50] Tips and warm-ups [49:20] Summary of the episode Resources:
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Skylar Holgate: Be The Water, Not The Rock
01/12/2021
Skylar Holgate: Be The Water, Not The Rock
On today’s show, I speak with my good friend, Skylar Holgate of Silverton Mountain Guides out of Durango. Skylar and I have shared a lot of great adventures, however what makes him most interesting is how many days he’s logged on major mountains around the globe. Skylar and I talk about his experience as a racer turned big mountain snowboarder and how he passes on his expertise from a lifetime of advanced mountain experience. Join us for this very special episode. Topics: [03:37] Skylar’s transition from skiing to snowboarding. [04:45] Skylar’s priorities in his twenties. [06:01] Helping people achieve results and overcome fear. [10:00] The challenges of adjusting resort style to backcountry/heli-skiing. [13:50] Why it’s important to familiarize yourself with new gear before skiing. [16:45] Skylar’s excitement about showing people the ropes and helping them improve. [21:45] Differences and similarities between resort skiers and professional skiers. [23:38] How he handles giving advice to professionals. [25:53] Important turn advice. [31:54] The best way to communicate with someone who is struggling. [36:05] The most helpful advice Skylar has received. [37:50] The main talent of Silverton Mountain Guides. [38:40] The importance of trying new things. Resources:
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Ted Mahon: It's All Fancy Footwork
01/05/2021
Ted Mahon: It's All Fancy Footwork
On this episode of Next Level Skiing, I speak with Ted Mahon, one of Colorado’s most respected mountain athletes. He has an impressive 25 years of experience in skiing and mountaineering. During most of that time, he has worked as a ski instructor. He has also skied most of the country’s highest mountains. On top of this, he has helped countless skiers reach their peak level of performance. Join us for an interesting conversation about preparation, uphill clinics, and Ted’s mountain experience. Topics: [02:44] Tips for kicking off your ski vacation on the right foot. [06:05] Skiing with returning clients. [07:45] Why it’s important to show up with a basic level of fitness. [08:35] What separates a great skier from a great bowl skier. [11:33] Ted’s uphill clinics and who attends them. [13:46] Weekly social uphills at Buttermilk. [15:10] The appeal of backcountry skiing. [18:18] Easing people into backcountry skiing. [20:35] How boots can affect your footwork and the effort you have to exert. [23:12] Advanced uphill clinics and what they offer. [29:41] Picking your peaks. [32:15] Thinking back on the highlights of his career. [34:10] Ted’s parting advice to other skiers. Resources:
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Erik Lambert: Backcountry - More Than Just Avy Skills
12/29/2020
Erik Lambert: Backcountry - More Than Just Avy Skills
Welcome back to Next Level Skiing, where we pick the brains of the best in the sport. Today, I speak with Erik Lambert, one of the founders of Bluebird Backcountry. He and his partner wanted to test the idea that skiers needed an intro to the fundamentals of backcountry skiing before diving in. As such, they figured out a middle ground and thousands have flocked to learn from the guides at Bluebird. They have since expanded their program and the training grounds. Tune in to hear more about this fantastic program and Erik’s experiences as a mountain sport enthusiast. Topics: [03:15] Starting from scratch with a new reservation system to help keep numbers small. [05:45] Finding a middle ground between resort and backcountry skiing. [10:45] Figuring out how to make the program sustainable. [13:24] What makes Bluebird different from another mountain’s Backcountry 101. [14:15] Why people just beginning their backcountry journey are often not ready for Avalanche One. [21:10] The feedback from Aerie-certified instructors. [23:05] Formalizing the way people learn and grow. [24:35] Growing up as a skier in Upstate New York. [27:00] Who the Bluebird Backcountry clients are and why the demographics surprised Erik. [33:00] The different skills required for backcountry skiing. [34:26] Erik’s solid piece of backcountry advice. Resources:
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Cody Townsend: Timing is Everything
12/22/2020
Cody Townsend: Timing is Everything
Welcome back to the Next Level Skiing podcast, brought to you by Wagner Skis. Today, I chat with Cody Townsend, a Southern California football superstar turned mountain hero. He has piloted a career on skis unlike any other I’ve seen. He claims his achievements were driven by boredom, of all things. His current undertaking, The Fifty Project, exposes the glory and work in skiing and mountaineering. Join us as we discuss his transition from heliskiing to hiking peaks and the unrelenting mental game involved therein. Topics: [03:52] Cody’s experience growing up in a football family. [04:22] How his family got him into skiing. [06:41] Critical skills he developed as a racer. [11:42] Cody’s experience as a heliskier and the ensuing transition to mountaineering. [12:07] Boredom and danger were catalysts to his shift. [15:54] The single most important skill in ski mountaineering. [19:15] Heading into his Fifty Project knowing he had a lot to learn. [24:25] Skiing the Sphinx in Alaska. [26:45] Perceptions of pro skiers vs. the reality. [29:05] The tendency to pull back when skiing intense steeps. [32:40] A basic drill that helps change your mindset on the steeps. [36:25] The experience that made him dream about skiing The Crack. [37:50] Drawing on past experiences to help you reach the next level. [39:40] Why skiing partners can affect your experience. [45:00] An article made Cody tear up. [46:35] A great piece of advice Cody received. Resources: ’
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Wes Wylie: Skiing and Healing, How to Ski Forever
12/08/2020
Wes Wylie: Skiing and Healing, How to Ski Forever
Dr. Wes Wylie is the guy you want on your heliskiing crew. He’s a heliski guide at Alaska’s Tordillo Mountain Lodge as well as Powderbirds out of Snowbird. He’s been a ski patroller at Deer Valley for more than 20 years. He travels to Chile and New Zealand in the summer to guide clients. Oh, and he’s also a private physician who travels the country practicing medicine. 1:00: Are you a ski guide who practices medicine or a doctor who skis? 2:30: Getting into medicine as a way to ski 3:45: The overlap between doctoring and skiing. A typical year on mountains, with a few months in hospitals. 5:50: “The big dinner conversation.” Honing aging bodies for skiing. Clients as patients. How to offset the 1% annual loss of muscle mass in men in their 50s, 60s and 70s. 7:15: The “easy” prescription to offset that muscle loss and even build muscle past age 50. 9:00: And even thwart the insidious weight gain of life after 50. 12:00: Advice for skiers looking to stay on skis deep into their 80s or even 90s: minimize the impacts. 12:35: People get injured for three reasons. Two of them are the fault of the guides. 14:20: Progressing “never-ever” Alaska helicopter skiers into steep, deep, sprawling terrain. 15:20: Second time's the charm. 18:30: Being “really spherical” when talking as a guide. 20:00: The photographic component of guiding. Tips for creating lifelong keepsakes. 23:40: Photos as “a great venue for people to review their skills.” 25:50: Building the ultimate guide ski for heavy-pack skiing in variable conditions in Alaska 28:00 The ultimate guide ski looks like this 32:00 The best advice he’s ever received: Movement is good. Stay in the flow. When people stay in the flow state, all the mechanics fall into place.
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