Dark Starts Backcountry Splitboard Podcast

EPISODE 101 Rain Felkl is an Alaska Native born and raised in Juneau. After making the move to the Wasatch Mountains, she was quickly captivated by the freedom and adventure of human-powered splitboarding. She has had the opportunity to explore many corners of her home range as well as longer adventures in mountain ranges in Alaska and the lower 48s. When she isn't riding powder, Rain is a rock climber and cyclist, which has naturally led her eye towards more exploratory splitboard objectives. @rainfelkl @phantomsnowindustries @cardiffsnowcraft @blackdiamond_snow DARK STARTS @darkstarts.podcast darkstarts.ca

EPISODE 99 Ruedi Beglinger, a man of the mountains. To be more specific, the Selkirks in British Columbia, Canada where, for the last few decades, he and his family have lived, in fact, his kids grew up on the Durrand Glacier. Ruedi's story begins in the Swiss Alps where he was born and raised. He first traveled to North America in 1978 and eventually planted roots in the Revelstoke area and began leading hut trips in the Selkirks. 37 years later he is still leading those tours and he now has 3 huts on the Durrand. His first splitboard was one that he decided to fabricate in 1995. @beglingerruedi @selkirkmtnexperience selkirkexperience.com DARK STARTS @darkstarts.podcast darkstarts.ca

EPISODE 97 Alex Andrews of WNDR Alpine is a rad dude with experiences ranging from skating bowls and jibbing the streets of Ogden, UT. He eventually started riding and working for Burton as a young ripper. Alex's “powder panic” and love for the mountains have him aligned with Wonder Alpine as their snowboard marketing and product manager. His passion made this a great chat and we hope you love this one. @therealfrothpuppy @wndr_alpine wndr-alpine.com DARK STARTS @darkstarts.podcast darkstarts.ca

EPISODE 97 McKinley grew up on the icy hills of New York, learning to ride in the Catskill Mountains. He made his way west in 2013 and began exploring the snow-filled mountains around Utah, Montana, and Colorado. His love of backcountry riding brought him to the Snow Science program at Montana State University, where he studied the applications of geographic information systems in identifying avalanche exposure. Since leaving Montana, McKinley now works for the Utah Avalanche Center as the Know Before You Go Avalanche Awareness Coordinator in addition to being a ski/splitboard/snowmobile guide at Monument Snowcat Skiing in Eden, UT. When he's not on his splitboard, you can find Mack on his mountain bike, casting his fly rod, or exploring new areas for when the snow finally falls. utahavalanchecenter.org @utavy kbyg.org @kbyg.avy @monumentranch DARK STARTS darkstarts.ca @darkstarts.podcast

EPISODE 96 2022 Freeride World Tour Junior World Champion, Lila Yeoman. Started snowboarding at the young age of 3, began competing at 11, and splitboarding at 14 Athlete for Jones Snowboards, ambassador for POC Sports, and snowboard instructor at Snowbird Currently working on riding all 90 lines in The Chuting Gallery Some would view Lila as a teen prodigy, she's accomplished a notable list by the young age of 17. With the guidance of her Dad Jeff, she's been on a steady path of snowboard progression since the age of 3 years old. Utilizing the Wasatch mountains as her training ground, she seeks out steep couloirs and rides daily at Snowbird and the surrounding backcountry. The future is bright for Lila. We're excited to see what's next on her path. Episode links: instagram.com/lilayeoman jonessnowboards.com/content/520-introducing-jones-womens-outerwear Follow us: darkstarts.ca instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast

Alex Gavic is a photographer, adventurer and splitboard mountaineer. Discovered his love for photography over 15 years ago while skateboarding around with his friends Skating evolved into snowboarding, and as an athlete, he started finding himself in front of the lens as much as behind it His content drew a huge social media following, bringing many people to remote and beautiful places they could not reach on their own For the past 10 years, Alex has been venturing into the powder filled peaks of the Western United States and sharing videos of his wild adventures. And people loved it! He developed a huge social media following of over 300k followers, between Instagram and Tiktok. His own story has unfolded into a life of chasing summits, the beauty of nature, and life. His search for the soul has fed ours. We hope you enjoy. Episode links https://www.alexgavic.com/ https://www.instagram.com/splitboardmountaineer/ https://www.tiktok.com/@splitboardmountaineer https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFwXWa0ax03NVU06MbD-ycg

Stratton (a.k.a. Cascade Connections) dedicates his time in the backcountry to raising awareness of the impact of carbon emissions and the effect of increased traffic in the alpine wilderness along the Pacific coast. Based in Bend, Oregon and calls the Cascades Volcanoes his home range Snowboards without the assistance of any fossil fuel vehicles, using only his bike and splitboard to ride mountains Spends 8 months of the year riding full time and creating video projects documenting his journeys In this episode, we discuss how he arrived at splitboarding, the friends he made along the way, and his constant dedication to the bike-to-board movement with his film Shift and constant short format video series on social networks. In his adventures, he hopes to inspire and promote a different way to access the mountains we love.

EPISODE 93 Pro rider Marissa leads by example, is passionate about getting the dawn light, and spends as much time in the mountains as possible. Born and raised in the northern woods of Michigan Moved to Oregon to become a wildland firefighter for the Mt. Hood National Forest She has been splitboarding all over North America, Eastern British Columbia, and Slovakia Marissa wasn't sold on splitboarding right away. For someone who loves the outdoors as much as her, it was in fact inevitable to resist. Now she loves getting up and out to the mountain “dark start” style. In this episode, we learn more about how Marissa got started, what's in her pack, skintrack nutrition, and what the future holds for her on her path of progression. MARISSA'S COMMUNITY Marissa: @bigmountainmarissa Jones Snowboards: @jonessnowboards Mt. Bachelor: @mtbachelor Sprark R&D: @sparkrandd Tactics: @tactics DARK STARTS Website: darkstarts.ca Instagram: @darkstarts.podcast LinkedIn: @dark-starts Email: pow@darkstarts.ca

After a long hiatus, we're back! Introducing a familiar voice back to the Dark Starts program - Maxwell J. Morrill. Max brings 3 decades of experience to the show, plus a huge rolodex of friends that he met along the way. In this mini-episode, we chat about where the podcast came from and where it's going. One thing's for sure, we are making the split board community a better and safer place for all. Ah, it's great to be back. Peace!

Episode 90 Guide and Athlete Will Kovacic talks foot powered filming and backcountry safety with Chad & Darrin. For the full show notes visit: https://www.darkstarts.ca/guests Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 90 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents Split Decisions, with Mike Lewis of Zeal Optics. For more information, visit https://www.darkstarts.ca/zeal Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 89 Sponsored Athlete Shawna Paoli talks about health, life and lines with Chad & Darrin. For the full show notes visit: https://www.darkstarts.ca/guests Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 88 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents Split Decisions, with John Keffler of Backcountry Access. For more information, visit https://www.darkstarts.ca/phantom https://www.phantomsnow.com/ Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 85 Surfer, splitboarder & board shaper Chris Christenson chats shapes with Chad & Darrin. For full show notes visit: https://www.darkstarts.ca/guests Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 86 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents Split Decisions, with Jack Beighle of Backcountry Access. For more information, visit https://www.darkstarts.ca/bca Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 85 Splitboard Guide Isaac Laredo from Truckee California educates Chad & Darrin. For full Show notes please visit https://www.darkstarts.ca/guests Show links: https://www.instagram.com/ilaredo/ https://www.instagram.com/alpenglowexpeditions/ Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 84 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents ski guide & POW Ambassador Blake Keogh. For full show notes and details on the products visit https://www.darkstarts.ca/blake-keogh Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 83 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents Split Decisions, with Corey Caffrey of Sans Meal Bar For full show notes and details on the products visit https://www.darkstarts.ca/sans-meal-bar Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 82 - Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents snowboard legend, Temple Cummins. For full show notes visit https://www.darkstarts.ca/temple-cummins Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 81 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents Split Decisions, with Jon Takao of Thirty Two Boots For full show notes and details on the products visit https://www.darkstarts.ca/thirty-two Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 80 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents legendary rider Joel Loverin of Whistler, BC. For full show notes visit https://www.darkstarts.ca/joel-loverin Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 79 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents Split Decisions, with Jackson Keogh of Big Sky mountain products. For full show notes and details on the products visit https://www.darkstarts.ca/big-sky Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 78 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents Freeride World Tour athlete Manuela Mandl. For full show notes visit https://www.darkstarts.ca/guests Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 77 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents Split Decisions, with Joey Vosburgh of Wolverine Snow Products. For full show notes and details on the products visit https://www.darkstarts.ca/wolverine-snow-products Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 76 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents Todd Heath of Bomb Snow magazine. For full show notes visit Show links: https://www.instagram.com/bombsnow/ https://bombsnow.com/ Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 75 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents a Split Decisions episode, with Jonathan Besquin of SomeWear Labs HotSpot Device. For full show notes visit Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 74 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents Hampus Cederholm, owner and co-founder of Furberg snowboards. For full show notes visit https://www.darkstarts.ca/hampus-cederholm Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 73 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents Split Decisions, with Will Ritter of Spark R&D. For full show notes and details on the products visit https://www.darkstarts.ca/sparkrandd Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 72 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents pro snowboarder, Ryan Hudson. Full show notes: https://www.darkstarts.ca/ryan-hudson Show links: https://www.instagram.com/rhudsonsb/ https://www.instagram.com/patagonia_snow/ https://www.instagram.com/jonessnowboards/ https://www.instagram.com/kodiakcakes/ https://www.instagram.com/sierranevada/ https://www.instagram.com/tetongravity/ https://www.instagram.com/powderbirdheliski/ https://www.instagram.com/snowbird/ https://www.instagram.com/jeremyjones/ Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 71 Freeride snowboarder, splitboarder & photographer Alenka Mali. Full show Notes at https://www.darkstarts.ca/alenka-mali Show links: https://www.instagram.com/alenkaamali/ https://www.instagram.com/spline_snowboards/ https://www.instagram.com/pocsports/ https://www.instagram.com/ortovox/ https://www.instagram.com/beaverwax/ https://www.instagram.com/suntribesunscreen/ https://www.instagram.com/resolvecbd/ https://www.instagram.com/stokedoats/ Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 70 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents Swiss splitboarder and big aspect rider, Simone Le Grand. https://www.darkstarts.ca/simone-legrand Show links: https://www.instagram.com/le_grand/ https://www.instagram.com/le_grand_design/ https://www.instagram.com/haglofs/ https://www.instagram.com/jonessnowboards/ https://www.instagram.com/karakorambc/ https://www.instagram.com/shadesofloveproject/ https://www.instagram.com/protectourwintersswitzerland/ Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 69 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents Max Holzman, founder of MTN Local Snowboards. Check out Max Holzman's show notes on his profile at www.darkstarts.ca/max-holzman Show links: https://mtnlocalsnowboards.com/ https://www.instagram.com/mtnlocalsnowboards/ Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Check out Zak Mills's show notes on his profile at www.darkstarts.ca/zack-mills Show links: @_zakmills @phantomsnowindustries @jonessnowboards @ridge_merino @julbo_eyewear @arcteryx Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 67 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents Taylor Godber from Whistler BC. For the show notes and much more visit: www.darkstarts.ca/taylor-godber Show links: https://www.createtravelinspire.com/ https://thedrawout.com/ https://www.jonessnowboards.com/ www.thenorthface.com/ https://rpmtraining.com/ https://snowboardcanada.com/whatcha-doing-taylor-godber/ Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 66 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents Jordan Keeth from Mammoth California. Grew up in Hawaii, Las Vegas and Hong Kong then moved to Mammoth California when she turned twenty-one. Here she found her passion for snowboarding. Her husband introduced her to the backcountry eight years ago and since then they have been pursuing the backcountry together. Outdoor enthusiast focused towards splitboarding, snowmobiling, mountain biking, hiking and running. Jordan Keeth is the definition of a gypsy soul with a passion for playing in the snow. Over the last twelve years she has chased snow to places in Australia, Japan, South America, the US and Canada. Listen in and hear stories from her journey and the tips and tricks she has learned along the way! Show links: https://www.instagram.com/jordankeeth/ https://www.instagram.com/endeavorsnow/ https://www.instagram.com/sandboxland/ https://www.instagram.com/airholefacemasks/ https://www.instagram.com/beaverwax/ https://www.instagram.com/ridge_merino/ https://www.instagram.com/rhythmsnowboardshop/ https://www.instagram.com/firestonewalker/ https://www.instagram.com/805beer/ https://www.instagram.com/hempsteadfarms/ Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 65 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents Mr. Relentless himself, Nick LaToof. Nick is a two-time author, most known for his first book, "The Relentless Mindset," and has written hundreds of articles on fitness, nutrition, and motivation over the last decade. As a filmmaker, he enjoys finding creative ways to tell the story, so that you can relive it alongside him.. This adventurer continues to push himself beyond his limits. Nick's been all over the USA, and finds himself at home among the country's highest peaks. Nick prefers the simple life that the mountains offers. If it was up to him, he'd be on a snowboard everyday and he's working hard to make that a reality. His background as a personal trainer evolved into coaching athletes and becoming a nutrition expert. His story took him from sunny L.A. to the high peaks of the Rockies, with no regrets. Listen in as he shares his story with us and how he preps for his backcountry tours. Show links: https://www.instagram.com/nlatoof/ http://www.nicklatoof.com/ Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 64 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents Scott Seward, Burton's one and only board engineer for the family tree line. Took his AVI1 in Jackson Hole WY then spent time exploring the Tetons with experienced riders to learn the ropes. Started working at Burton in 2007 as an Engineering Intern. His hard work and dedication grew his career to become the Senior Manager of Hardgoods Advanced Development. Developed the snowboards for the Family Tree line as well as custom boards for Danny Davis, Dave Downing, Alex Andrews the list goes on and one. Scott is the behind the scenes man that works hard to perfect every detail of every board he designs, giving people their best rides. In this episode we dive deep into board building - side cuts, edging, channels, 3D shaping and more! Learn more about everything that goes into designing boards, so you can pick the next member of your quiver with confidence. Show links: https://www.instagram.com/burtonsnowboards/ Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 63 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents Megan Pischke of Boarding for Breast Cancer. Former professional snowboarder, learned about the backcountry on tours with Jeremy Jones and Craig Kelly Mom of 2, living her best life between Costa Rica and the Mountains with her husband DCP Wellness & Community Director for Boarding for Breast Cancer, providing Integrated healing for women managing diagnosis, treatment, and aftercare And now for something completely different! We've been spending a lot of time running down gear and snowpack, so now we want to take a minute to reconnect. We asked an expert to talk with us about getting our zen on in the backcountry, getting grounded and living our best lives. Tune in and get inspired! About our guest: Megan Pischke is influencing others for a higher purpose. She's now the Wellness + Community Director of Boarding for Breast Cancer (B4BC). As a former professional snowboarder, breast cancer thriver, and mother of two, she brings in first-hand knowledge and experience to be an empowered activist for Integrative healing for women managing a breast cancer diagnosis, treatments, and aftercare. Her ideas around wellness transcend beyond what you can ‘do' for yourself, with ‘what we can be and achieve together' within our communities. Her passions are surfing, shredding pow, foods, and sharing her love of being outside with her kids and husband DCP. Show links: https://www.instagram.com/megsporcheron/ https://www.instagram.com/b4bc/ https://www.instagram.com/gnusnowboards/ https://www.instagram.com/libtechsurf/ https://www.instagram.com/coalheadwear/ https://www.instagram.com/dakine_snowboarding/ https://www.rdsteps123.com/meditation-room/ Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 62 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents Judson Wright, founder and owner of Kootenay Backcountry Guides. Started skiing early in life with his family in southern Ontario, taking trips to Vermont and eventually discovered snowboarding. Moved out West and fell in love with powder, following that passion he met a heli guide that inspired his current life path as a guide. Started Kootenay Backcountry Guides in 2017 and has been killing it with both the guiding and education parts of the business. While training to become an ACMG, Jud was caught in the middle of a slide on an extended traverse from Bugaboo to Rogers Pass. He shares the wild story with us as well as the humbling lessons that he learned. These important lessons are a strong foundation for the education that he provides to the community with both Kootenay Backcountry Guides training and the State of the Snowpack events that he supports in Nelson, BC. We learned so much about training, gear, and much more and hope you do too. Jud, it was truly our pleasure. Show links: https://kootenaybackcountryguides.com/ https://westonbackcountry.com/ https://www.roamshop.com/ https://www.stateofthesnowpack.com/ https://tributeboardshop.ca/ Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 61 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents a snowboarding Legend Mark Fawcett. Hailing from New Brunswick, he got his start ripping with his dad down Polly and Sugarloaf Mountains. His competitive highlights include 14 World Cup victories and 40 podiums, 3 U.S. Open titles and he's a two-time Canadian Olympic Snowboard team member (1998 & 2002). Sporting cameos in vintage snowboard movies, he landed a co-host gig in a sled-access backcountry snowboarding TV Show called Sacred Ride. Currently coaching Canada's Olympic snowboarding team for the last 16 years. Mark wanted the free surfy feeling that he got watching a Ted Shred movie on a trip to Sugarloaf. So he spent his life chasing it, in the competition circuit, wind surfing, kite surfing, and in the backcountry. In this episode, Mark shares some amazing stories from the glory days of snowboarding and some great insights he picked up in his 30 years of shredding. We can't decide who's the bigger wax nerd, Chad or Mark? Show links: https://www.instagram.com/mark_fawcett/ https://tributeboardshop.ca/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHrgCo0KEsqICJX0POzWt-g Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 60 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents Krister Kopala from Tromsø in Northern Norway. Started riding on a Burton Chopper at the age of four now has twenty- six years of experience snowboarding. Six years ago he started focusing on exploring the backcountry by splitboarding and mountaineering. Krister has been featured in multiple films in the last 10 years such as Endless Winter and he is always updating his instagram with videos of his adventures. In Tromsø they are heavily focused on staying fit and exploring the backcountry. During the summer Krister works as a lineman and like many others in his town, works out in preparation for the winter months to come. Living in a culture that thrives on adventure means that Krister never stops pushing the limits. Listen in and hear more about his experiences in the backcountry and how his search for the perfect hard boot has gone. Show links: https://www.instagram.com/kriskopa/ https://www.furbergsnowboards.com/ https://www.instagram.com/furbergsnowboards/ https://www.instagram.com/vertical_playground/ https://www.instagram.com/blueiceclimbing/ https://www.instagram.com/julbo_eyewear/ https://www.instagram.com/g3gear/ https://www.instagram.com/rab.equipment/ Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 59 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents Nick Russell backcountry backcountry shredder and lover of the mountains out of Truckee California. Started riding halfpipe in Stratton, Vermont during his early years but once he rode powder in Salt Lake City, Utah he was hooked on chasing big mountains. Completed first descents on his snowboard in places like Bolivia, India and the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Social activist working to educate and encourage others to vote for candidates focused on protecting natural environments. Nick was romanced by backcountry movies that sparked his life journey of endless pursuits to get higher into the mountains. Being self sufficient is always a goal of his so it only makes sense to use his own two feet. Having years of experience he now has it dialed in to ensure he is comfortable on every tour. Listen in and learn what gear he uses and why he pursues the backcountry by his own power. Show links: https://www.instagram.com/nick_russelll/?hl=en https://www.instagram.com/jonessnowboards/ https://www.instagram.com/karakorambc/ https://www.instagram.com/smartwool/ https://www.instagram.com/patagonia/ https://www.instagram.com/onxbackcountry/ https://www.instagram.com/redbullsnow/ https://www.instagram.com/arcadebelts/ https://www.instagram.com/tok_air_service/ Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 58 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents Antti Autti, Professional Snowboarder from Finland and the creator of Artic Lines Video series. Took gold at the 2005 winter X-Games in men's Superpipe beating Danny Kass, Andy Finch and Shawn White. Nineteen podium places, six wins in the halfpipe at the World Cup. Four times competing in the World Championships taking first in Big Air and Halfpipe in 2005. Three podium places in the Finnish Championships. No longer competing he focuses on creating films in the backcountry. Currently working on the Arctic Line series. Antti seeks adventure by exploring the arctic circle but pays close attention to what the mountains are willing to let him do. With a top notch team of guides and friends he is working on accomplishing 30 freeride lines in the arctic circle. Check out the links below on where you can watch his lines so far. Show links: https://www.instagram.com/anttiautti/?hl=en https://arcticlines.com https://www.jonessnowboards.com/content/282-antti-autti Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 57 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents Jake Sullivan, owner of Hand Out Gloves. Got his start in the business by working for Bjorn and Erik Leines’ glove company, Celtek. After that, he started building cores for Voile and 4Front Skis. Bought a glove company with his friend and mentor Don Wildman and rebranded it as Hand Out Gloves. Their sales skyrocketed after making a deal on Shark Tank in 2016. Runs down various global destinations for shredding, with his sights on Chile to honor his late friend Don. We love having guests on the show that are riders who develop great products for the community. Jake is a very humble and down to earth guy. Having worked in the snow industry his whole life, he was excited for the opportunity to buy a glove brand with his mentor Don Wildman. After running the business for 8 years, they now have many new and improved styles, made for all outdoor enthusiasts. Show links: https://handoutgloves.com/home/about/ https://www.instagram.com/handoutgloves/ https://www.milosport.com https://www.backcountry.com/ https://www.skinsee.com Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 56 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents Briony May Johnson rider for the YES snowboards on the Tasman Team. Growing up riding in Australia and visiting Japan with her parents and two older brothers. Now she helps run the Refre Hotel, her family's lodge in Myoko Kogen Japan. Sponsored by YES snowboards, Airblaster, Twelve Board Store and Eivy Plans to compete in Freeride World Tour qualifiers once the world opens back up again. Briony is a backcountry enthusiast who likes to climb steeps as much as she likes to ride them. She usually rides at her home resort in Australia and in the mountains around her family lodge in Myoko Japan. Even though the Freeride World Tour qualifiers were canceled this year she is working hard to accomplish her goal of making it to the big stage. Show links: https://www.instagram.com/brionymayjohnson/ https://refremyoko.com https://www.yesnowboard.com https://twelveboardstore.com.au https://www.instagram.com/refremyoko/ https://www.eivyclothing.com/au/?gclid=Cj0KCQjw9_mDBhCGARIsAN3PaFOj5S6-U_Uw_pBVoo8oi-mYmocxnRd9pI2-IUFGiUtQEuLUcQs1ZcMaAp4oEALw_wcB https://myairblaster.com/?gclid=Cj0KCQjw9_mDBhCGARIsAN3PaFMKsXDozdX3j2U72RbbXDKHwwTa-vHU9-JAYDpjzqz1nP4cPbj6Q5waAieVEALw_wcB https://myairblaster.com/?gclid=Cj0KCQjw9_mDBhCGARIsAN3PaFMKsXDozdX3j2U72RbbXDKHwwTa-vHU9-JAYDpjzqz1nP4cPbj6Q5waAieVEALw_wcB Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 55 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents Adam Zok ACMG splitboard guide out of Revelstoke BC. While attending Berkeley he joined a ski club where he was able to ride the resorts in Tahoe, Big Sky and Jackson Hole. After guiding at Mt. Shasta in California he wanted to take his guiding career further so he moved to Revelstoke BC and became an ACMG certified guide. Going on his eighth winter in Revelstoke he is now guiding for Selkirk Tangiers Heli Skiing, CAPOW, Revelstoke Backcountry Guides while also planning hut trips and taking private bookings. Adam shares his journey from skateboarding in Santa Barbara California to now being an ACMG certified guide in Revelstoke BC. When he isn’t guiding others through the backcountry he is out exploring and studying ways to ride through new terrain. Adam gave us great pointers on where he went to learn more about the backcountry along with what it takes to take care of yourself and others in emergency situations. So grab a cold one and listen in! Show links: https://www.instagram.com/adamzok/?hl=en https://capow.ca/team/adam-zok/ https://westonbackcountry.com/pages/adam-zok https://snowboardcanada.com/adam-zok-autobiography/ Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 54 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents Mikey Franco, shaper and owner of Franco Snowshapes. Started out as a skateboarder until he found a way to skate on snow, then winter became his favourite season. Rider, instructor, guide and everything in between, until his body pushed his career into a new direction - shaping, thanks to his friends at Igneous and inspirations from beautiful Japanese boards. Went out on his own and started Franco Snowshapes to build boards that are unique for each individual and how they ride. Ladies and gentlemen, get ready to geek out on board design! Mikey discovered his passion for building boards after a trip to Japan re-ignited an old injury and put his riding on hold for the year. He took inspiration from Japanese board design and launched his own company to emulate the form and function he fell in love with. Franco Snowcraft builds custom snowboards and splitboards tailor made for each rider for a truly amazing experience. Hey, and a quick reminder that we all need to look out for each other in the backcountry. Stay safe out there! Show links: https://www.francosnowshapes.com https://www.instagram.com/francosnowshapes/ Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 53 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents Pro Snowboard mountaineer and filmmaker Rafael Pease. Professional Chilean snowboard mountaineer, social-environmental activist, and documentary filmmaker. Since college he has lived between Chile and the United States. Switching from winter in the Northern hemisphere to winter in the Southern hemisphere. Inspired by Jeremy Jones' movie Deeper, he found his own calling to influence and educate people on environmental issues through filmmaking. Rafael puts part of his soul into every documentary and project he creates. Combining his diverse background in snowboard mountaineering, activism and environmental sciences, he finds a unique perspective to educate and keep the viewer on the edge of their seat. Through the power of film, Rafael is manifesting the change that he wants to see in the world. Respect. Show links: https://connectionsmovement.com https://www.instagram.com/rafaelpease/?hl=en https://www.instagram.com/connectionsmovement/?hl=en Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 52 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents Kate Ediger, founder of Pit and Peak Avalanche Skills Training. Grew up in Grand Prairie with a grandfather that instilled a passion and appreciation for exploring the outdoors in her. Entered the 2012 Powder Highway Ultimate Ski Bum Contest and won multiple heli and cat ski trips from companies like Purcell Heli-Skiing, Fernie Wilderness Adventures, Selkirk Snowcat Skiing and K3 Cat Ski. Founded Pit and Peak where she teaches avalanche safety courses through the winter as well as tail guiding for K3 Cat Ski in Revelstoke. Kate has a deep passion for exploring mountains, pushing her snowboarding, educating and inspiring others to grow to new levels year after year. She is blazing a trail for females in the backcountry and snowboard industry, inspiring others to pursue their dreams beyond their limits and smiling along the way. Kate is an aspiring snowboard guide, avalanche instructor, big mountain freeride competitor and mother to her son, Timber. Her contagious energy, adventurous spirit and positive personality will leave you feeling good. Get ready to be inspired! Show links: https://www.pitandpeakavalanche.com https://www.instagram.com/shrediger/?hl=en https://www.instagram.com/pitandpeakavalanchetraining/?hl=en Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 51 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents Ty Mills, founder and owner of All Aspects Alpine. Ty was just the second person to ever become a certified ACMG ski guide in Canada on a splitboard. He works for numerous guide services, including Eagle Pass HeliSkiing, 40tribes and Golden Alpine Holidays. He also runs his own guide business All Aspects Alpine, which offers backcountry adventures in Canada and Internationally. Ty loves to play in the mountains. Lazy powder turns, bootpacking up couloirs, laying skin tracks or shredding alpine lines are a few of his favourite things. This guide takes us around the world, sharing his adventures and giving us solid tips from his years as a multi-faceted mountain guide. We learned a lot and hope you will too! Show links: https://aaabackcountryguides.com/ https://www.instagram.com/tymills/ http://www.ogasaka-snowboard.com/index_e.html Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/

Episode 50 Dark Starts backcountry splitboarding podcast presents Britteny Dickson founder of Stay Wild Backcountry. Her passion for snow and the mountains was sparked at a very young age, growing up in the mountains of Grand Forks BC with parents who both ski and snowboard. With 15 year of experience snowmobiling and snowboarding, Brittney has always seen the benefit of learning from locals and having good mentors around her. Brittney founded Stay Wild Backcountry Skills, where she teaches in depth avalanche safety courses for both snowboarding and snowmobiling, she offers a variety of online and in person courses along with guided tours. Get ready to take notes! Brittney tells us stories about how her parents raised her in the mountains and she drops years of backcountry knowledge on us in this episode. We recently took the Stay Wild Backcountry course and loved it. Listen in and hear some great nuggets of the wisdom, but if you want the full download, you gotta take the course! Show links: https://www.staywildbackcountry.ca https://www.instagram.com/stay_wild_backcountry/ https://www.facebook.com/StayWildBackcountry/ Cool books: Deep Survival: https://amzn.to/30JFqtC Let It Ride: The Craig Kelly Story: https://amzn.to/3qPOdoi Buried: https://amzn.to/2OXEcbG Special thanks to: Visit our website for great deals from our sponsors: www.darkstarts.ca/partners Groundswell Marketing www.instagram.com/groundswell_fm/ Valerie Black The Artist Behind The Logo www.instagram.com/valerieblack.art/ Follow us: www.darkstarts.ca @ Darkstarts.podcast https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.podcast/ @ Darkstarts.media https://www.instagram.com/darkstarts.media/