The Avalanche Hour Podcast

In this episode, Sara Boilen interviews Andrea Manberg. Andrea is an economist and researcher who spends her time thinking about human behavior, decision-making, and risk in avalanche terrain. Having survived a pretty brutal avalanche herself, Andrea is passionate about understanding what motivates us toward risk and how we position ourselves to enjoy our pursuits while staying as safe as we want to. She presented at ISSW on her paper, Is it a man’s world? Gendered professional experiences in snow and avalanche safety and came on the podcast to talk to Sara about the reality faced by males, females, and non binary folks in an industry long-dominated by men. The conversation delves into various topics including what makes a good snow and avalanche professional, mentorship, and menstruation. Join us as we deconstruct the myth that it is, and needs to be, a man’s world. Website for CARE (where Andrea Works): https://en.uit.no/ansatte/andrea.mannberg There, you can find out more about Andrea and what the good folks at CARE are doing as well as links to Andrea’s publications. If you’d like to watch more of Andrea, here’s a link to a great talk she gave back in 2017 with the Sawtooth Avalanche Center: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C7xSutCesLQRead the research by Andrea and her colleagues, as presented at ISSW Tromso here: https://arc.lib.montana.edu/snow-science/objects/ISSW2024_O11.6.pdfSupport for this Episode is provided by: Wyssen Avalanche Control Gordini OpenSnowPropagation Labs

Dr. Christopher Van Tilburg, an American physician and wilderness medicine expert, shares his extensive knowledge on avalanche safety and technology. He discusses the evolution of avalanche airbags, highlighting their life-saving potential and the importance of hands-on training. The impact of safety gear on skiers' risk tolerance is examined, along with advanced devices enhancing mountain rescue operations. Lastly, Van Tilburg emphasizes the critical post-excavation care for avalanche victims, ensuring effective rescue and recovery.

Sean Zimmerman-Wall steps in front of the mic to bring you another great interview with Rebecca “Becs” Hodgetts. Becs began ski patrolling in the mid-1990s on Mt Ruapehu, a volcano in the central plateau of New Zealand’s North Island. She went on to work at other resorts in New Zealand, Canada, and the US. She worked 12 years at Arapahoe Basin in Colorado, first as an avalanche technician and later as Assistant Ski Patrol Director. She joined the Colorado Avalanche Information Center in 2013 and worked first as a Backcountry, then as a Highway Forecaster, and finally as a Regional Lead Forecaster for southern Colorado. In July 2024, she took a new role with the US Forest Service's National Avalanche Center (NAC). In this role, she will support the NAC's mission to improve backcountry and ski area safety by reducing avalanche risk on and around National Forests. This mission includes training and transferring information and technology to the field, managing the Artillery for Avalanche Mitigation Program, and coordinating US avalanche centers through the National Avalanche Forecast Platform.Show Notes:March 2019 Historic Avalanche Cycle Video produced by CAIC https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BlkH-MnzddcInterview with CAIC Director Ethan Greene produced by The Powder Cloudhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YolFA80sP5YNational Avalanche Center and Avalanche.orghttps://avalanche.org/national-avalanche-center/The Starting Zone by Karl Birkelandhttps://support.friendsofcaic.org/products/the-starting-zone-at-the-interface-between-avalanche-science-and-practice?srsltid=AfmBOopaIynaGIjcEwbEhudjbTuCHTWlsHXgIFQf26ne3tfbgcABdFj-Thanks to the sponsors of this episode: Wyssen Avalanche ControlGordini USAOpenSnowIPA CollectiveMusic by Age DiamanteArt by Mike Tea

Ian McCammon, the godfather of human factors in avalanche education, shares his journey from engineering to avalanches. He discusses the tragic loss of a friend that propelled him into studying decision-making in risky conditions. Key topics include his FACETS acronym, highlighting common cognitive errors, and the Personal Disaster Flags (PDFs) for self-assessment. Ian emphasizes the need for reflective practices and developed the ALPTRUTh algorithm to aid in risk evaluation. His insights underline the balance between emotion and analysis in high-stakes environments.

Jen Reddy is a total low-key badass who sat down with Caleb for a great conversation about her work with Teton County Search and Rescue and the American Avalanche Association. Jen is tasked with overseeing the guidance of the professional training program amongst participating providers within the US. Jen and Caleb talk about her early years of backcountry skiing, a close call, and some influences that urged her to get involved as a volunteer with Teton County Search and Rescue. They discuss some of her work at A3 and what has been going on behind the scenes to elevate the level of professional training in the US. Tune in to hear more.Music: KetsaArt: Mike TeaListener SurveyResources:A3 Pro Training ProgramICAR 2024 CongressTeton County Search and Rescue

In this compelling discussion, Chris Stethem and Grant Statham, both veterans in avalanche safety and research, delve into the evolution of decision-making frameworks in the field. They highlight the significance of the InfoEx system's development and how advanced communication has transformed safety practices. The guests reflect on the importance of higher certification standards, the dynamics of deep slab avalanches, and the balance between scientific assessments and real-world experience. Their insights underline the ongoing evolution of collaboration, safety regulations, and risk management in avalanche terrain.

In this enlightening discussion, Chris Stethem, a retired avalanche consultant, and Grant Statham, a legendary mountain guide, delve into the pivotal moments that shaped avalanche safety practices. They recount the Granduc Mine Avalanche, exploring the urgent need for improved risk assessment. They reminisce about the early days of avalanche management, the evolution of communication methods, and the introduction of avalanche beacons. Their insights on snowpack changes and mentoring within the industry foster a deeper appreciation for the complexities of navigating snowy terrains.

Episode Overview In this engaging episode, host Jason Antin dives into a captivating conversation with Liz King, a renowned leader in avalanche education and mountain safety. Liz shares her unique journey from her unexpected beginnings in Houston, Texas, to becoming a key figure in the avalanche education world. As the Avalanche Program Director for both the American Avalanche Institute (AAI) and the Colorado Mountain School (CMS), Liz oversees comprehensive avalanche programming, from recreational courses to professional certifications. Liz’s story begins with a love for the mountains that led her to the University of Montana, where she first discovered her passion for the outdoors. Her career started with horse packing at NOLS, transitioned to ski patrolling, and grew into a prominent role as an avalanche educator and guide. Liz reflects on her path, discussing the evolving landscape of avalanche education, the challenges of managing large-scale programs, and the importance of mentorship in outdoor leadership. This episode offers deep insights into Liz’s professional evolution, her perspective on student engagement, and the advancements in avalanche safety technology. Jason and Liz discuss the shifting demographics of avalanche education students, the balance between recreational and professional training, and Liz’s personal goals as she navigates her leadership roles. The conversation also highlights Liz’s reflections on mentorship, her passion for empowering the backcountry community, and her dedication to maintaining personal connections in the mountains. With humor and authenticity, Liz shares her “personal disaster flags” (PDFs), her thoughts on the role of mentorship in her career, and her excitement for skiing in new mountain ranges every year. Whether you’re a seasoned avalanche educator or new to the backcountry world, this episode is packed with valuable insights, inspiration, and a glimpse into the mind of a true mountain professional. Resources & Links Mentioned • American Avalanche Institute (AAI): www.avalancheinstitute.com • Colorado Mountain School (CMS): www.coloradomountainschool.com • American Avalanche Association (A3): www.avalanche.org • Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center: www.jhavalanche.org Crew • Host: Jason Antin • Guest: Liz King • Producer: Caleb Merrill and Cameron Griffin Sponsors • Wyssen: www.wyssen.com • OpenSnow: www.opensnow.com • Gordini: www.gordini.com • Beacon Guidebooks: www.beaconguidebooks.com  Music by Age Diamante: • Chill Pah

In this compelling episode, Brooke sits down with Josh Hirshberg, a veteran avalanche forecaster and educator with nearly two decades of experience in the snow safety world. Currently forecasting for the Northwest Avalanche Center (NWAC), Josh dives into his journey through the avalanche industry, from early internships in Aspen to forecasting in Washington’s Cascades. Josh shares captivating insights about the notable February 2021 avalanche cycle in Washington, the challenges of persistent weak layers, and the importance of mentorship and collaboration. He also reflects on personal growth, balancing creative pursuits like photography and art, and how grief has shaped his perspective on the mountains and life. Resources & Links Mentioned • Northwest Avalanche Center (NWAC): www.nwac.us Crew • Host: Brooke Maushund • Guest: Josh Hirshberg • Producer: Cameron Griffin (@backcountrycam) Sponsors • Wyssen: www.wyssen.com • Arva: www.arva-equipment.com • OpenSnow: www.opensnow.com • Gordini: www.gordini.com • Safeback: www.safeback.com • Beacon Guidebooks: www.beaconguidebooks.com 🎶 Music by Ketsa: • Yellowish • Snowing in Spring • Anons

In this engaging discussion, Larry Goldie, an IFMGA licensed mountain guide and co-owner of North Cascades Mountain Guides, shares insights from his extensive career in avalanche safety. He delves into the challenges women face in the guiding field and the critical nature of effective communication in high-risk situations. Larry recounts a harrowing avalanche experience to illustrate the dangers of mitigated speech, emphasizes the importance of clear decision-making, and discusses how shared stories can foster community and enhance learning in outdoor sports.