Inside Alaska

   This week's episode is with Bjorn Olson of Homer. Bjorn is well known throughout the adventure community for his pioneering routes by fatbike throughout the state, often in the Northwest Arctic. He seeks more from his trips than self enjoyment, instead making a concerted effort to learn about local issues and interact with communities and residents along the way. We cover a broad spectrum in this conversation including : -Growing up in a squatter's cabin -His first winter trip on the Iditarod -The Donlin Mine -His concept of instruments of adventure -Playing and seeking out a sense of enjoyment in every moment -The role of uncertainty -Why he is attracted to the Northwest Arctic -Where he has his eye on next And much more. This conversation proved to be a real treat. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.   Links: Bjorn's website Nome to Unalakleet Nome to Kivalina (ADN) Point Hope to Utqiagvik (ADN) Nome to Fairbanks Attempt Alaskans Know Climate Change Goran Kropp Videos: Bjorn's Vim

Justin Olnes sat down with me to discuss his recent research into boreal forest ecology. Justin's primary focus was on herbivores (specifically snowshoe hares) impact on floodplain and treeline ecosystems. We discuss snowshoe hares, herbivore/vegetation dynamics, Justin's concept of the snowshoe hare filter and more.   Justin's published papers: Stage‐dependent effects of browsing by snowshoe hares on successional dynamics in a boreal forest ecosystem Asynchronous recruitment dynamics of snowshoe hares and white spruce in a boreal forest Can snowshoe hares control treeline expansions?

Nearly 50 years ago, Dave Cramer and a friend sold nearly everything they owned and set off on horseback from Montana with their eyes set on building a cabin in British Columbia.  The trip didn't end up as planned and they were encouraged by an outfitter to head up to Alaska.  After taking up that advice, Dave slowly found a place he came to call home.  Over the years, he built up the skills to maintain and thrive in a remote setting on his homestead with his family, found and operate a successful consulting business and enjoy time out among the mountains.  This conversation dives deeply into the life of a true Alaskan and his time in the country.     Alaska Mountain Wilderness Ski Classic Summit Consulting Services Inc.