Mushing

In this episode of the Mushing Podcast, host Robert Forto interviews Thom Swan, a historical reenactor and dog musher, about the rich history of dog mushing. They discuss the evolution of sled dogs, the daily life of mushers in the past, and the importance of historical accuracy in reenactments. Thom shares fascinating stories from the fur trade era and highlights the challenges and joys of mushing today. The conversation also touches on the role of women in the history of dog mushing and the resources available for researching this unique aspect of Alaskan culture.The Mushing podcast is made possible by Mushing+ subscribers. Learn more about all the benefits of a subscription and subscribe now at mushing.com/mushingplus Our fans would love to learn more about you. Fill out our Musher Q & A hereDo you have a story idea, or pitch a podcast? Check it out hereTrail Bytes 2025Facebook | X | InstagramLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and shareSign up for our Newsletter HEREWe would love to hear your feedback about the show!You can contact us here: Podcast@mushing.com

In this episode of the Mushing Podcast, host Robert interviews musher Keaton Loebrich, who recently completed his first Iditarod race. Keaton shares his journey into the world of mushing, the challenges he faced during the race, and the vital role his dogs played in his success. He reflects on the future of dog mushing, offering advice for newcomers to the sport, and shares heartfelt stories about his lead dogs, Rambo and Miss Y. The conversation highlights the camaraderie within the mushing community and the passion that drives mushers to continue pursuing their dreams.

In this episode of the Mushing Podcast, host Robert speaks with Betsy Heidt about her journey in dog-powered sports with her dogs, Muppy and Journey. Betsy shares her experiences with training, racing, and the unique challenges of using smaller breeds in mushing. The conversation highlights the community support in dog sports, the rise of Muppy's popularity, and insights into the future of dog mushing. Betsy also offers advice for newcomers to the sport and shares fun facts about her dogs' diverse activities.The Mushing podcast is made possible by Mushing+ subscribers. Learn more about all the benefits of a subscription and subscribe now at mushing.com/mushingplus Our fans would love to learn more about you. Fill out our Musher Q & A hereDo you have a story idea, or pitch a podcast? Check it out hereTrail Bytes 2025Facebook | X | InstagramLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and shareSign up for our Newsletter HEREWe would love to hear your feedback about the show!You can contact us here: Podcast@mushing.com

In this episode of the Mushing Podcast, host Robert speaks with Dave Daley, founder of the Hudson Bay Quest, a unique sled dog race in Churchill, Manitoba Canada. They discuss Dave's background in dog mushing, the challenges faced by the race, and the importance of community involvement. The conversation also touches on the future of dog mushing, advice for newcomers, and the logistics of the race, including safety measures and the potential for polar bear encounters. Listeners are encouraged to connect with the Hudson Bay Quest through social media for real-time updates during the race.The Mushing podcast is made possible by Mushing+ subscribers. Learn more about all the benefits of a subscription and subscribe now at mushing.com/mushingplus Our fans would love to learn more about you. Fill out our Musher Q & A hereDo you have a story idea, or pitch a podcast? Check it out hereTrail Bytes 2025Facebook | X | InstagramLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and shareSign up for our Newsletter HEREWe would love to hear your feedback about the show!You can contact us here: Podcast@mushing.com

In this engaging conversation, Connor McMahon shares his journey as a musher, detailing his experiences leading up to and during the Iditarod. He discusses his life in the Yukon, the challenges faced on the trail, and the importance of his dog team. Connor reflects on the unique experiences of the race, including unexpected weather conditions and the camaraderie among mushers. He also looks ahead to future races and offers advice for those interested in the sport of mushing.The Mushing podcast is made possible by Mushing+ subscribers. Learn more about all the benefits of a subscription and subscribe now at mushing.com/mushingplus Our fans would love to learn more about you. Fill out our Musher Q & A hereDo you have a story idea, or pitch a podcast? Check it out hereTrail Bytes 2025Facebook | X | InstagramLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and shareSign up for our Newsletter HEREWe would love to hear your feedback about the show!You can contact us here: Podcast@mushing.com

In this episode of the Mushing Podcast, host Robert interviews Marcel Marin, a seasoned musher from Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, who is deeply involved in organizing the Underdog 100 race. They discuss the unique challenges of mushing in extreme cold, the race's format, and the community's engagement in dog sledding. Marcel shares insights on the history of the race, the importance of volunteers, and the future of dog mushing, emphasizing the need for a supportive community and the joy of racing with dogs.

In this episode of the Mushing podcast, host Robert speaks with Jonah Bacon, a passionate dog musher living in Alaska. Jonah shares his journey from rural Wisconsin to the mushing capital of the world, detailing his experiences in dog sledding, including his participation in the Yukon Quest and his current role at Inukuk Lake Wilderness Lodge. The conversation explores Jonah's future racing plans, insights into dog nutrition, and advice for aspiring mushers, all while highlighting the beauty and challenges of life in the Alaskan wilderness.The Mushing podcast is made possible by Mushing+ subscribers. Learn more about all the benefits of a subscription and subscribe now at mushing.com/mushingplus Our fans would love to learn more about you. Fill out our Musher Q & A hereDo you have a story idea, or pitch a podcast? Check it out hereTrail Bytes 2025Facebook | X | InstagramLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and shareSign up for our Newsletter HEREWe would love to hear your feedback about the show!You can contact us here: Podcast@mushing.com

In this episode of the Mushing podcast, host Robert interviews Alix Crittenden, a passionate musher from Wyoming. Alex shares her journey into dog mushing, her experiences with health challenges, and the beauty of the trails she runs on. The conversation delves into the different types of dog racing, the logistics of managing a kennel, and the strategies involved in racing. Alex also discusses the future of dog mushing and offers advice for newcomers to the sport, emphasizing the importance of hard work and dedication.The Mushing podcast is made possible by Mushing+ subscribers. Learn more about all the benefits of a subscription and subscribe now at mushing.com/mushingplus Our fans would love to learn more about you. Fill out our Musher Q & A hereDo you have a story idea, or pitch a podcast? Check it out hereTrail Bytes 2025Facebook | X | InstagramLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and shareSign up for our Newsletter HEREWe would love to hear your feedback about the show!You can contact us here: Podcast@mushing.com

This podcast episode discusses the 47th Junior Iditarod, highlighting Emily Robinson's historic achievement as the first four-time champion. It covers the challenges mushers face due to weather conditions, the adjustments made to the race route, and the excitement surrounding the next generation of dog mushers. The episode emphasizes the significance of the Junior Iditarod in the world of dog-powered sports and the accomplishments of young athletes in this challenging environment.The Mushing podcast is made possible by Mushing+ subscribers. Learn more about all the benefits of a subscription and subscribe now at mushing.com/mushingplus Our fans would love to learn more about you. Fill out our Musher Q & A hereDo you have a story idea, or pitch a podcast? Check it out hereTrail Bytes 2025Facebook | X | InstagramLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and shareSign up for our Newsletter HEREWe would love to hear your feedback about the show!You can contact us here: Podcast@mushing.com

In this episode, Tony Turner shares his unique journey into the world of mushing from New Zealand, discussing the evolution of sled dog racing in the country, the challenges faced, and the importance of proper dog care and nutrition. He reflects on his experiences in Alaska, the shift towards dry land racing, and the impact of climate change on the sport. Tony emphasizes the need for education within the mushing community and offers valuable advice for newcomers to the sport.The Mushing podcast is made possible by Mushing+ subscribers. Learn more about all the benefits of a subscription and subscribe now at mushing.com/mushingplus Our fans would love to learn more about you. Fill out our Musher Q & A hereDo you have a story idea, or pitch a podcast? Check it out hereTrail Bytes 2025Facebook | X | InstagramLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and shareSign up for our Newsletter HEREWe would love to hear your feedback about the show!You can contact us here: Podcast@mushing.com

In this episode of the Mushing podcast, hosts Robert and guests Terri and Rory Frolick discuss their journey into the world of dog mushing, the breeds of dogs they work with, and the competitive nature of the sport. They share insights on traveling with a dog team, the mushing community in Washington, and the future of dog mushing. The conversation also touches on the importance of mentorship for new mushers and the nutritional needs of sled dogs, concluding with some fun rapid-fire questions.The Mushing podcast is made possible by Mushing+ subscribers. Learn more about all the benefits of a subscription and subscribe now at mushing.com/mushingplus Our fans would love to learn more about you. Fill out our Musher Q & A hereDo you have a story idea, or pitch a podcast? Check it out hereTrail Bytes 2025Facebook | X | InstagramLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and shareSign up for our Newsletter HEREWe would love to hear your feedback about the show!You can contact us here: Podcast@mushing.com

In this episode of the Mushing podcast, Robert Forto shares his experiences covering the Yukon Quest Alaska, detailing the challenges posed by the weather, the excitement of the race, and the community surrounding dog mushing. He reflects on the changes in the race format, the mushers participating, and the impact of the winter conditions on the sport. The episode concludes with a look ahead to future races and the ongoing passion for mushing in Alaska.TakeawaysThe Yukon Quest Alaska is a significant event in the mushing community.Weather conditions have drastically affected mushing activities this winter.The 550-mile race format is a new and exciting development.Community support is vital for the success of dog sled races.Mushers come from diverse backgrounds and experiences.The atmosphere at the Yukon Quest was filled with excitement and anticipation.Radio coverage of the race provided a unique perspective.The history of the serum run is an important part of mushing lore.Future races may face challenges due to current weather conditions.The passion for mushing continues to thrive despite obstacles.The Mushing podcast is made possible by Mushing+ subscribers. Learn more about all the benefits of a subscription and subscribe now at mushing.com/mushingplus Our fans would love to learn more about you. Fill out our Musher Q & A hereDo you have a story idea, or pitch a podcast? Check it out hereTrail Bytes 2025Facebook | X | InstagramLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and shareSign up for our Newsletter HEREWe would love to hear your feedback about the show!You can contact us here: Podcast@mushing.com

Join host Robert Forto as he welcomes one of the musher representatives from the Beargrease, John Tackeberry of Wisconsin, to the Mushing podcast. The Mushing podcast is made possible by Mushing+ subscribers. Learn more about all the benefits of a subscription and subscribe now at mushing.com/mushingplus Our fans would love to learn more about you. Fill out our Musher Q & A hereDo you have a story idea, or pitch a podcast? Check it out hereTrail Bytes 2025Facebook | X | InstagramLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and shareSign up for our Newsletter HEREWe would love to hear your feedback about the show!You can contact us here: Podcast@mushing.com

Join host Dr. Robert Forto as he welcomes Dr. Katie Neshek to the podcast. She is the head veterinarian for the Beargrease and we talk about what it is like out on the trail, setting up vet teams and much more. The Mushing podcast is made possible by Mushing+ subscribers. Learn more about all the benefits of a subscription and subscribe now at mushing.com/mushingplus Our fans would love to learn more about you. Fill out our Musher Q & A hereDo you have a story idea, or pitch a podcast? Check it out hereTrail Bytes 2025Facebook | X | InstagramLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and shareSign up for our Newsletter HEREWe would love to hear your feedback about the show!You can contact us here: Podcast@mushing.com

Join host, Dr. Robert Forto as he welcomes David Hicks to the Mushing podcast. They talk about adaptive dog sleds, outdoor trips in the Boundary Waters of Minnesota and more. The Mushing podcast is made possible by Mushing+ subscribers. Learn more about all the benefits of a subscription and subscribe now at mushing.com/mushingplus Our fans would love to learn more about you. Fill out our Musher Q & A hereDo you have a story idea, or pitch a podcast? Check it out hereTrail Bytes 2025Facebook | X | InstagramLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and shareSign up for our Newsletter HEREWe would love to hear your feedback about the show!You can contact us here: Podcast@mushing.com

Update: Johnn Molburg passed away on January 16, 2025 in Pennsylvania. He was a legend in the sport of dog mushing. He will be missed. Join hosts Robert Forto and Kourosh Partow as they welcome sprint musher and sled builder, Johnn Molburg to The Dog Driver Show.On this podcast the guys talk about mushing history, building wooden dog sleds and more.The Mushing podcast is made possible by Mushing+ subscribers. Learn more about all the benefits of a subscription and subscribe now at mushing.com/mushingplus Our fans would love to learn more about you. Fill out our Musher Q & A hereDo you have a story idea, or pitch a podcast? Check it out hereTrail Bytes 2025Facebook | X | InstagramLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and shareSign up for our Newsletter HEREWe would love to hear your feedback about the show!You can contact us here: Podcast@mushing.com

Join host Robert Forto as he welcomes one of the musher representatives from the Beargrease, Shawn McCarty of Minnesota, to the Mushing podcast. The Mushing podcast is made possible by Mushing+ subscribers. Learn more about all the benefits of a subscription and subscribe now at mushing.com/mushingplus Our fans would love to learn more about you. Fill out our Musher Q & A hereDo you have a story idea, or pitch a podcast? Check it out hereTrail Bytes 2025Facebook | X | InstagramLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and shareSign up for our Newsletter HEREWe would love to hear your feedback about the show!You can contact us here: Podcast@mushing.com

Join host Robert Forto as he welcomes Kailyn and Justin Olnes of ReRun Kennel near Fairbanks, AlaskaThe Mushing podcast is made possible by Mushing+ subscribers. Learn more about all the benefits of a subscription and subscribe now at mushing.com/mushingplus Our fans would love to learn more about you. Fill out our Musher Q & A hereDo you have a story idea, or pitch a podcast? Check it out hereTrail Bytes 2025Facebook | X | InstagramLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and shareSign up for our Newsletter HEREWe would love to hear your feedback about the show!You can contact us here: Podcast@mushing.com

Join host Robert Forto as he welcomes Stage Stop musher, Sean Hildreth of Oregon to the Mushing podcast.

From all of us at Mushing, we want to give you a heartfelt wish and hope you have a wonderful holiday season. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! Let's make 2025 a great year for you and your team!

In this episode of Mushing, Robert Forto interviews Fernando Ramirez, a passionate musher from Park City, Utah. They discuss the unique aspects of dog sledding, including the importance of transparency in the sport, the challenges of attracting clients for dog sledding tours, and the significance of rescue and rehabilitation for sled dogs. Fernando shares insights about his kids' summer program aimed at empowering youth through dog sledding, as well as a typical day in the life of a musher. The conversation also touches on the competitive nature of dog racing, the future of the sport, and advice for aspiring mushers.The Mushing podcast is made possible by Mushing+ subscribers. Learn more about all the benefits of a subscription and subscribe now at mushing.com/mushingplus Our fans would love to learn more about you. Fill out our Musher Q & A hereDo you have a story idea, or pitch a podcast? Check it out hereTrail Bytes 2025Facebook | X | InstagramLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and shareSign up for our Newsletter HEREWe would love to hear your feedback about the show!You can contact us here: Podcast@mushing.com

In this episode of Mushing, host Robert Forto interviews Matt Redwine, the trail boss for the Wyoming Stage Stop. They discuss the intricacies of dog sled racing, the evolution of the race format, and the vital role of a trail boss in ensuring the safety and success of the mushers. Matt shares insights into the challenges of trail conditions, the advancements in racing technology, and the dynamics of racing strategies. The conversation also touches on the future of dog mushing and offers advice for newcomers to the sport.

In this episode, Robert Forto and Michele discuss the first anniversary of their acquisition of Mushing Magazine, highlighting their rebranding efforts, trademarking initiatives, and the relaunch of their podcast. They emphasize their commitment to maintaining the print magazine, engaging with the community through sponsorships, and the introduction of their Lego mascots, Chaser and Dream. The conversation concludes with a look ahead to their plans for 2025, including continued content development and community involvement.

In this episode of Mushing, host Robert Forto speaks with Alex Lee Moore, a newcomer to the dog mushing community in Alaska. Alex shares her journey from Virginia to Alaska, her family's involvement in mushing, and her aspirations for racing and training sled dogs. The conversation explores the challenges and joys of building a dog team, the importance of community support, and the future of dog mushing as a sport. Alex emphasizes the need for open-mindedness in training and the excitement of introducing her children to the world of mushing.

Join host Robert Forto as he talks with Lisa Nilson, the executive director of the Yukon Quest Alaska sled dog race.They talk about the 2025 race, the other races in the series, the trail and more.

Join host Robert Forto as he welcomes Iditarod veteran and author Bridgett Watkins to discuss her new book, Marker to Marker: A Woman's Journey of Purpose and Perseverance Amidst Adversity.

In this episode, Michele Forto provides updates on the latest issue of Mushing Magazine, celebrating the 100th anniversary of the serum run with various stories and features. She discusses the importance of community engagement in dog sledding, the archiving of historical newsletters, and invites contributions for the upcoming 200th issue. The conversation emphasizes the rich history and ongoing excitement within the dog mushing community.

This conversation introduces the exciting world of mushing and the recent developments surrounding the Team and Trail magazine. The hosts discuss their commitment to providing in-depth coverage of sled dog racing, the launch of new magazine issues, and the importance of community engagement in the sport. Listeners are encouraged to subscribe and participate in the mushing community.

Join host Robert Forto as he welcomes Stage Stop racer, Austin Forney to talk about the race, training and running in Colorado, cattle ranching and more.

Join host Robert Forto as he re-caps the Contiential Championshps in Wisconsin on this joint podcast of Mushing and Team and Trail.

Join host Robert Forto as he welcomes Anny Malo and Marco Rivest from Canada to talk about traveling long distances to race in races like the Stage Stop, Rondy and more.

Join Robert Forto as he hosts a joint podcast with Mushing and Team and Trail to discuss the day's events at the Continental Championship in Minocqua, Wisconsin.

Join host Robert Forto as he welcomes musher, author, and entrepreneur Rob Downey to discuss his new book, Until the Last Dog: One Man's Lifelong Journey to Alaska with His Dogs. We also discuss how sled dogs changed his life, his pet food company, Annamaet, and more.

Join host Robert Forto for this quick Team and Trail and Mushing podcast about the opening ceremonies and vet checks at the IFSS Continental Championships.

Join host Robert Forto as he hosts from the Continental Dryland Championships in Minocqua, Wisconsin in this joint venture with Team and Trail. This is the kick-off to the weekend's activities in what is sure to be a world-class event.

Join host Robert Forto as he welcomes Iditarod rookie Calvin Daugherty as he prepares to run in next year's race. We also discuss climbing some of the world's highest mountains, team dynamics, learning from an Iditarod champion, and more.

Join host Robert Forto as he interviews the Team USA participants at the Iron Paws Dryland Race in Washington. Please note that the audio is a bit scratchy for this episode. We were recording right in the middle of the race site, and Robert brought the wrong microphone set up for the race. It is great information, so please listen.

Join host Robert Forto as he welcomes the president of the John Beargrease Marathon in Minnesota as they gear up for the race. We talk about the history of the race, as Mike is a descendant of John Beargrease, the trail, the upcoming events, and more.

In this episode of the Mushing podcast, host Robert Forto interviews Dan Carter, the race director for the Pedigree Stage Stop. Dan shares his journey into the world of dog mushing, detailing his experiences from guiding in Minnesota to racing in the Iditarod. He discusses the various locations he has run dogs, the transition from being a musher to a race director, and the responsibilities that come with these roles. Dan also reflects on the future of dog mushing and offers advice for newcomers to the sport.

Join host Robert Forto as he welcomes Dan Carter, the race director for the Pedigree Stage Stop. In this episode, we discuss the race's history, format, purse, and more. The Mushing podcast is made possible by Mushing+ subscribers. Learn more about all the benefits of a subscription and subscribe now at mushing.com/mushingplus

In this conversation, Michele Forto discusses various topics related to First Paw Media and Mushing Magazine. She talks about the magazine's latest issue, the connection between podcasting and magazine reading, and the future of the print magazine. She also introduces her new mascots, Chaser and Dream. Overall, the conversation highlights the goal of providing a comprehensive and interactive experience for adventure sports enthusiasts and dog lovers.

Join host Robert Forto as he sits down with the president of the Anchorage Mushing District, Jim Huettl at his lakehouse in Alaska. We talk about the history of the project, the future plans and how it will commemorate the sport of dog mushing in Alaska.

Join host Robert Forto as she welcomes Deborah Molburg-Bicknell from her home in Laconia, NH to talk about growing up in a mushing family, Team and Trail, running the Iditarod, dogs through the ages, and much more.

Join host Robert Forto as he welcomes Canadian musher Kat Langlais and Can-Am race board member Sarah Brooks to discuss the regulations between Canada and the United States regarding dog entry into the country.

Join host Robert Forto as welcomes long-time mushing supporter and sponsor, David A. Pike to talk about his Dog Wellness Initiative, the Iditarod, Junior Iditarod, getting involved, and much more. The Mushing podcast is made possible by Mushing+ subscribers. Learn more about all the benefits of a subscription and subscribe now at mushing.com/mushingplus

Join host Robert Forto as he welcomes the director of development for the Leonard Seppala House in Nome. In the episode they talk about the project to restore the house in time for the 100 anniversary of the 1925 serum run, the vision for the future, and much more.

Join host Robert Forto as he welcomes Dr. Lucille Maddalena to discuss her new book, Moving on By! Harnessing My Sled Dog Team's Instinct to Win. On the show, they discuss leadership, case studies, sled dogs as a metaphor for team building, and more.

Join host Robert Forto as he interviews Iditarod musher, Jason Mackey on the Mushing podcast. The Mushing podcast is made possible by Mushing+ subscribers. Learn more about all the benefits of a subscription and subscribe now at mushing.com/mushingplus

Join host Robert Forto as he welcomes Iditarod musher, Katti Deeter to the Mushing podcast. They talk about running in the race, their tourism business, Black Spruce Dog Sledding and much more.

Join host Robert Forto as he welcomes Iditarod musher, Jeff Deeter to talk about the Iditarod, sled dogs, tourism and much more on the Mushing podcast. The Mushing podcast is made possible by Mushing+ subscribers. Learn more about all the benefits of a subscription and subscribe now at mushing.com/mushingplus

Join host Alex as he brings you Iditarod Through the Decades: The Future.Support Dog Works Radio by visiting our sponsor, Alaska Dog Works, a premier dog training company that trains service dogs for people all over North America. Follow Alex: @coldfootfilmsThe Mushing podcast is made possible by Mushing+ subscribers. Learn more about all the benefits of a subscription and subscribe now at mushing.com/mushingplus