Open Container: Outdoor culture as a free flowing conversation (Doug Schnitzspahn)

Today Doug opens the container to explore the new world of outdoor politics with Caroline Gleich.

Doug opens the show talking about the ongoing struggle to protect public lands from privatization and the critical need for increased political engagement among outdoor enthusiasts. He also delves into the contemporary implications of such efforts, particularly highlighted by the recent bid by certain factions to diminish public land protections.

Then Doug sits down with Caroline Gleich, a professional ski mountaineer and environmental advocate, who underscores the importance of authentic representation in politics, particularly from individuals who are deeply connected to the outdoors.

Caroline also talks about her recent experience running for Senate and what to expect (and how to cope) during the coming four years.

Learn more about Caroline Gleich by clicking here.

Thanks for listening! Open Container is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

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Send your feedback, questions, and comments to myrockfight@gmail.com.

Today Doug heads to the deserts of Utah to open the container with artist Cody Chamberlain.

Doug starts the episode by diving into the significance of the wilderness as a source of inspiration and creativity, emphasizing that the desert offers a unique perspective that can rejuvenate our minds and spirits.

He then speaks with Cody Chamberlain, an accomplished artist with deep roots in Utah's landscapes. Cody shares insights on how his lifelong engagement with the natural world informs his artistic practice and fosters a commitment to environmental stewardship.

Doug and Cody explore the essential role of art in navigating contemporary challenges, urging listeners to recognize the value of wild spaces in preserving our humanity amidst the cacophony of modern life.

Thanks for listening! Open Container is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's weekly newsletter by heading to www.rockfight.co and clicking Join The Mailing List.

Please follow and subscribe to Open Container and give us a 5 star rating and a written review wherever you get your podcasts.

Send your feedback, questions, and comments to myrockfight@gmail.com.

Today Doug opens the container with Danica & Mike Carey of Seirus Innovation.

Doug begins the episode by reflecting on the need for innovation within the outdoor and ski industries. He talks about his 25 years of working within those industries during which he has observed how the outdoors is adept at prioritizing creativity and problem-solving over mere profit maximization.

Doug is then joined by Mike and Danica Carey of Seirus Innovation, who talk about the significance of fostering an inclusive culture that welcomes diversity, recognizing that a broad spectrum of perspectives can lead to greater creativity and innovation.

Thanks for listening! Open Container is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's weekly newsletter by heading to www.rockfight.co and clicking Join The Mailing List.

Please follow and subscribe to Open Container and give us a 5 star rating and a written review wherever you get your podcasts.

Send your feedback, questions, and comments to myrockfight@gmail.com.

The outdoors is not just a niche; it is essential to our lives and who we are as a species. As the world faces increasing challenges like climate change and cultural upheaval, the importance of nature becomes even more pronounced. This podcast, hosted by Doug Schnitzpahn, delves into the myriad ways the outdoors can offer solutions to our anxieties and help us heal. Through engaging conversations, listeners will explore stories of creativity, adventure, conservation, and the vibrant community that thrives in outdoor spaces. Join us as we open the container to discover the transformative power of nature and learn how it can guide us toward building a better world.

Get some.

Today Doug opens the container in search of awe and finds it with Stacy Bare.

Moments of awe transcend mere experiences. They serve as pivotal junctures in our personal narratives, fostering healing and a deeper understanding of our existence. And while the outdoors is a source for awe inspiring moments, awe can also be found everywhere.

Today's guest is Stacy Bare, who has dedicated his life to harnessing the therapeutic power of awe, particularly for veterans and individuals grappling with trauma. Our conversation underscores the importance of cultivating awe in our daily lives and encourages listeners to seek out and embrace these moments, no matter how small.

Thanks for listening! Open Container is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's weekly newsletter by heading to www.rockfight.co and clicking Join The Mailing List.

Please follow and subscribe to Open Container and give us a 5 star rating and a written review wherever you get your podcasts.

Send your feedback, questions, and comments to myrockfight@gmail.com.

Today Doug opens the container with Chad Brown to discuss changing the narrative around conservation.

Filmmaker Chad Brown is a passionate advocate for environmental justice and founder of the nonprofit Love Is King. During this conversation he discusses the intersection of conservation and social justice, emphasizing that true conservation must recognize the sacredness of land and its cultural significance.

Chad highlights the importance of diverse voices in the conservation movement, particularly those of BIPOC leaders who have historically been marginalized. He shares insights from his latest film, Resilience Rising: Echoes of Owhyee Canyonlands, which captures the journey of five BIPOC leaders as they explore and connect with the land's deep history and significance. Chad also reflects on the healing power of nature in his own life, particularly as a veteran dealing with PTSD.

The discussion culminates in a powerful reminder that actions taken today shape the world for future generations, reinforcing the idea that love and community are essential in the fight for justice and preservation of our natural spaces.

Learn more about Chad's environmental justice work by clicking here.

Thanks for listening! Open Container is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's weekly newsletter by heading to www.rockfight.co and clicking Join The Mailing List.

Please follow and subscribe to Open Container and give us a 5 star rating and a written review wherever you get your podcasts.

Send your feedback, questions, and comments to myrockfight@gmail.com.

Today Doug opens the container with Dani Reyes-Acosta to discuss how outdoor stories should come from everyone.

This episode delves into the evolving landscape of outdoor storytelling and inclusivity, emphasizing the need for diverse voices and perspectives within the outdoor industry.

Doug's guest today, Dani Reyes-Acosta, is an advocate and cultural strategist. She and Doug discuss her journey of self-discovery and connection to nature, highlighting the importance of representation beyond traditional narratives dominated by white male perspectives.

The conversation touches on the significance of community engagement and the value of grassroots organizations that prioritize authentic storytelling and inclusivity. Dani shares her experiences in filmmaking and advocacy, urging listeners to recognize their inherent worth and the necessity of fostering connections amongst different communities.

Thanks for listening! Open Container is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's weekly newsletter by heading to www.rockfight.co and clicking Join The Mailing List.

Please follow and subscribe to Open Container and give us a 5 star rating and a written review wherever you get your podcasts.

Send your feedback, questions, and comments to myrockfight@gmail.com.

Today Doug opens the container with Luis Benitez to discuss the need for a National Office of Recreation.

The rise in outdoor recreation has always been a part of the American experience, with transcendentalists like Emerson and Thoreau heading to the woods for enlightenment, down to current day secularists just wanting to get away from work. The indigenous people of this continent whose lands were taken and occupied had a deep connection to these spaces and still do.

Luis joins the show to discuss the critical role of outdoor recreation departments in advocating for the outdoor community and promoting sustainable practices on public lands.

He shares his journey from guiding on Everest to becoming a prominent advocate for the outdoor recreation sector, highlighting the importance of collaboration across political lines to address shared concerns for conservation and accessibility.

The discussion also touches on challenges faced by the outdoor industry, including increasing pressure on public lands and the necessity of responsible management as more people seek outdoor experiences.

Through their dialogue, they emphasize the potential for a national department of outdoor recreation to unify efforts and further protect these vital spaces for future generations.

Note: This conversation was recorded before the 2024 presidential election.



Thanks for listening! Open Container is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's weekly newsletter by heading to www.rockfight.co and clicking Join The Mailing List.

Please follow and subscribe to Open Container and give us a 5 star rating and a written review wherever you get your podcasts.

Send your feedback, questions, and comments to myrockfight@gmail.com.