Adventure Sports Podcast Ep. 1126: Building Community, Adventures with Teens - David Kooharian
Oct 8, 2025
David Kooharian, an artist and former educator, discusses his inspiring journey in building community through outdoor adventures with teens. He shares thrilling stories, including stormy hikes on Grandfather Mountain and memorable blizzards on the Appalachian Trail. David highlights the importance of unplugging from technology, teaching practical skills through urban scavenger hunts, and empowering teens to lead during trips. He emphasizes the lasting bonds formed through shared adventures while offering tips for starting similar community groups.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Founding The Wanderers
- David Kooharian formed The Wanderers to keep doing outdoor adventures with his kids after leaving scouts.
- The group ran monthly trips year-round for eight years, growing friendships and skills.
Grandfather Mountain Storm
- On Grandfather Mountain heavy storms separated the kids from adults and soaked everyone overnight.
- The ordeal became a treasured ‘‘epic trip’’ that taught gear responsibility and decision-making.
Mount Washington Bonding Moment
- On Mount Washington David and his daughter Maddie endured a violent lightning storm and icy hail near the summit.
- The shared fear and survival created a bonding, empowering moment that changed their relationship.