Advertise on podcast: Big Red Canoe - Friends of the Boundary Waters podcast

How do you navigate a challenging wilderness when you can't even see it? In this fascinating and deeply moving episode, we sit down with Kelly Carver, who has been paddling the Boundary Waters for over 40 years—including the past three decades since he became legally blind. After being diagnosed with a degenerative eye disease following his first BWCA trip in 1982, Kelly refused to let vision loss stop him from experiencing the place where he says "part of his soul" resides. Kelly takes us inside what it's really like to navigate the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness without sight, from paddling across lakes to mentally mapping each campsite, then ultimately rising to the challenge of completing the epic 220-mile Border Route, which included traversing the legendary nine-mile Grand Portage by himself. He shares harrowing moments—a mysterious canoe flip, 40-mph winds on Knife Lake—and magical ones, like the fox standing three feet away that he never saw coming. Through it all, Kelly reveals what it has meant to finally embrace the word "blind" after years of fighting it, and reminds us that the wilderness belongs to everyone willing to step outside their comfort zone. Whether you're facing your own challenges or simply want to experience the Boundary Waters through another viewpoint, Kelly's story of determination and adaptation is almost certain to change how you think about what it truly means to experience the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. Website: https://www.friends-bwca.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BWCAW Twitter: https://twitter.com/FriendsBWCAW YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/FriendsOfTheBWCA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/friendsbwcaw/ Donate: https://www.friends-bwca.org/donate/

Join us for an inspiring conversation with JD Fratzke, a celebrated chef and author who served as a judge and mentor on Bravo's Top Chef and brings a unique perspective to Boundary waters cooking. JD finds profound inspiration in Minnesota's Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, where he combines his fine dining expertise with camp cooking over open fires.  From Professional Kitchens to Campfire Cuisine  Wilderness cooking plays a big role as JD's meditative reset from high-pressure restaurant kitchens. He shares practical camp cooking tips including essential spice combinations (curry powder and Montreal steak seasoning), fresh ingredients that travel well, and his approach to boundary waters recipes that embrace simplicity while delivering extraordinary flavor. Hear about his famous lentil stew recipe, Campfire Pintos ‘Charros’, creative Lake Trout and Crayfish Tacos made with fresh-caught fish, and why he believes cooking over fire connects us to our most primal human experiences. JD reveals the difference between solo and group boundary waters camping meals, plus rookie mistakes to avoid when cooking in the wilderness. Poetry and Wilderness Advocacy Beyond cooking, JD is a published poet whose works River Language and Dharma Butcher explore the intersection of wilderness, food, and human experience. He reads us his moving poem "Aurora," inspired by the Northern Lights over the boundary waters. His passion for protecting this sacred wilderness as a place of healing and transformation shines throughout our conversation. For Outdoor enthusiasts, cooking lovers, and anyone interested in boundary waters recipes, camp cooking techniques, and the deeper connections between food, nature, and creative expression. Read more Recipes and Articles from JD Fratzke on Friends-BWCA.org Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. Website: https://www.friends-bwca.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BWCAW Twitter: https://twitter.com/FriendsBWCAW YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/FriendsOfTheBWCA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/friendsbwcaw/ Donate: https://www.friends-bwca.org/donate/

Proper food storage and bear-aware camping practices aren't just recommendations—they're life-saving skills that every Boundary Waters visitor needs to master. Alex Messenger learned this lesson the hard way when a 600-pound grizzly bear nearly killed him during a remote Canadian wilderness expedition, an experience that transformed him into one of the region's most passionate advocates for bear safety and wilderness preparedness. On this episode of the Big Red Canoe Podcast, Alex channels his hard-won wisdom into practical advice for Boundary Waters visitors, covering everything from the U.S. Forest Service's  mandatory food storage regulations to proven bear hang techniques that actually work. As a volunteer with the St. Louis County Rescue Squad, he's seen firsthand how proper preparation prevents emergencies, and he and host Dave Meier deliver essential knowledge for safely sharing Minnesota's BWCA wilderness with its black bear population.  At 17 years old, Alex was living every wilderness enthusiast's dream—42 days paddling through the remote Canadian tundra, hundreds of miles from civilization. But on day 29 of what should have been the adventure of a lifetime, that dream became a nightmare when he found himself face-to-face with an apex predator, armed with nothing but a camera case and his wits. The harrowing attack, which he details in his memoir "The 29th Day," offers more than just a gripping survival story—it provides crucial insights into bear and human behavior, wilderness medicine, and the split-second decisions that can mean the difference between life and death in bear country. Whether you're a seasoned wilderness traveler or planning your first backcountry adventure, this episode provides the tools and mindset needed to explore bear country confidently and responsibly. 1:00 Introduction - Alex's background growing up going to the Boundary Waters 15:00 Alex describes the bear attack detailed in his book "The Twinty-Ninth Day" 46:00 Bears in the Boundary Waters, solo camping, Food safety, Bear safety tips For more on Alex, visit his website: https://www.alexmessenger.com/ You can order The Twenty-Ninth Day from Blackstone Publishing, or your favorite purveyor of fine books. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. Website: https://www.friends-bwca.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BWCAW Twitter: https://twitter.com/FriendsBWCAW YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/FriendsOfTheBWCA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/friendsbwcaw/ Donate: https://www.friends-bwca.org/donate/

The Boundary Waters faces one of its greatest threats in decades. Hidden in the latest reconciliation bill is a dangerous provision that would hand hundreds of thousands of acres near the BWCA to toxic copper-sulfide mining companies—while blocking any legal challenges. This reckless giveaway threatens to bring industrial mining right to the doorstep of America’s most pristine wilderness, risking irreversible damage to our clean water and wild places.  Senator Tina Smith is fighting back with legislation to stop this attack on our public lands. She joins us for a critical conversation about what’s at stake and how we can defend the Boundary Waters together. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. Website: https://www.friends-bwca.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BWCAW Twitter: https://twitter.com/FriendsBWCAW YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/FriendsOfTheBWCA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/friendsbwcaw/ Donate: https://www.friends-bwca.org/donate/

Author Frank Bures joins us on the podcast to discuss his compelling new book, Pushing the River: An Epic Battle, a Lost History, a Near Death, and Other True Canoeing Stories. Frank shares riveting tales from a century of canoe racing, including the forgotten history of the Paul Bunyan Canoe Derby—a grueling 450-mile race on the Upper Mississippi that changed modern canoeing forever.  The conversation takes a personal turn as Frank recounts his own harrowing rescue on the Mississippi and other contemporary stories of adventure and survival, including the terrifying escape of two kayakers from the 2011 Pagami Creek Fire in the Boundary Waters. Learn More about the Book and Author at FrankBures.com Dave and Frank explore our essential connection to natural spaces and the urgent need to protect these environments in today's political landscape, whether it be the Boundary Waters or the mighty Mississippi River. Drawing from his background as a former trips director and camp naturalist at YMCA Camp Olson, as well as his experience supporting Guinness World Record paddling teams on the Mississippi, Frank offers unique insights into the transformative power of river journeys. Support the Friends of the Boundary Waters' Open Water Spring Fundraiser and have your gift doubled with generous match! Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. Website: https://www.friends-bwca.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BWCAW Twitter: https://twitter.com/FriendsBWCAW YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/FriendsOfTheBWCA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/friendsbwcaw/ Donate: https://www.friends-bwca.org/donate/

Discover the mesmerizing world of dark sky photography with renowned astrophotographer Marc Rassel as he shares expert tips, memorable stories, and essential techniques for capturing the night sky.  From the pristine dark skies of Minnesota's Boundary Waters to international stargazing destinations, Marc reveals how to create stunning images of the Milky Way, aurora, and other celestial wonders.  Marc also describes the growing challenge of light pollution and how photographers can help preserve our vanishing dark skies. Whether you're a complete beginner with just a smartphone or an experienced photographer looking to refine your nighttime techniques, this episode offers practical guidance and inspiration for anyone interested in photographing the stars.  Follow Marc Rassel on Instagram at @marcrasselphoto and connect with him at marcrasselphoto.com. This podcast is part of Boreal Stargazing week, February 10-17, 2025. Embrace the winter darkness and discover the magic of Minnesota’s starbright skies! Join us for a week of free activities for students, families, and friends that will immerse you in learning and stargazing.  These free events are friendly for all ages and feature captivating night sky tours, snowshoe hikes, live conversations with astronomers, and more! Find more information at Friends-BWCA.org/stargazing Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. Website: https://www.friends-bwca.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BWCAW Twitter: https://twitter.com/FriendsBWCAW YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/FriendsOfTheBWCA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/friendsbwcaw/ Donate: https://www.friends-bwca.org/donate/

Want to introduce your kids to winter camping but not sure where to start? Join us as we chat with Anthony Quill, an adventurous Minnesota Dad who's mastered the art of getting his young children excited about camping in Minnesota's winter wonderland. Anthony shares how his family transitioned from international living to embracing the frozen wilderness, starting with backyard adventures and working their way up to dog sledding expeditions and hot tent camping near the Boundary Waters. Then we join the Quill family to hear from the kids themselves at their winter getaway in Ely, MN! Follow the Quills' adventures: Website: FromTenttoTakeoff.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fromtenttotakeoff Instagram: @fromtenttotakeoff Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. Website: https://www.friends-bwca.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BWCAW Twitter: https://twitter.com/FriendsBWCAW YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/FriendsOfTheBWCA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/friendsbwcaw/ Donate: https://www.friends-bwca.org/donate/

How might the recent election results impact the future of Minnesota's cherished wilderness? In this timely episode, Steve Schultz, Government Relations Manager at Friends of the Boundary Waters, examines the shifting political landscape and its implications for the Boundary Waters. The discussion explores both federal and state-level changes, with particular focus on proposed legislation that could affect mining restrictions near this pristine area.  While acknowledging the challenges ahead, Schultz outlines practical ways citizens can help protect the wilderness, from grassroots activism to engaging with elected officials, along with a broader reflection on why the Boundary Waters matter and the importance of preserving this unique wilderness for future generations. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. Website: https://www.friends-bwca.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BWCAW Twitter: https://twitter.com/FriendsBWCAW YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/FriendsOfTheBWCA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/friendsbwcaw/ Donate: https://www.friends-bwca.org/donate/

Two adventurous cyclists embark on an epic journey from Minnesota to New York, pedaling around Lake Superior through Canada, all to support Friends of the Boundary Waters. One of the riders, Mike Quirk, joins us to tell tales from the trip. The ride was to take 30 days and cover almost 2000 miles. But like any true adventure - things didn’t quite go as planned. And before the trip was over, Mike found himself swapping out his bike for a canoe to cover some of the middle-Canada miles on the Ottawa River – then having more unexpected adventures before getting behind the handlebars again to finish the ride to New York. Listen in with us as Mike shares the twists, turns (and near misses!) of this eventful, scenic and charitable ride. Inspired by their dedication? You can make a difference too! If you have a unique fundraising idea to support the Friends, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us to learn how you can help protect the BWCA. Together, let’s ensure this incredible wilderness remains pristine for generations to come. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. Website: https://www.friends-bwca.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BWCAW Twitter: https://twitter.com/FriendsBWCAW YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/FriendsOfTheBWCA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/friendsbwcaw/ Donate: https://www.friends-bwca.org/donate/

Anglers shouldn't miss this Boundary Waters fishing podcast! Whether you’re a seasoned Boundary Waters angler or dreaming of your first BWCAW adventure, this is a rare opportunity to learn from one of the true experts.  Expert tips on how to catch BWCA Lake Trout, Walleye, Smallmouth Bass and Northern Pike In this engaging conversation, Boundary Waters Journal publisher and BWCA and Quetico fishing guide, Stu Osthoff will share his vast knowledge and insider tips for catching the “Grand Slam” of canoe country fishing – lake trout, walleye, smallmouth bass, and northern pike. He’ll reveal the best times, lures, tactics and hotspot lakes for targeting these legendary species. Stu is a passionate advocate for wilderness values like solitude, adventure and connecting with nature through fishing. And he discusses how to transcend an ordinary canoe trip by embracing the challenge and breathtaking beauty of backcountry angling in this unspoiled wilderness. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. Website: https://www.friends-bwca.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BWCAW Twitter: https://twitter.com/FriendsBWCAW YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/FriendsOfTheBWCA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/friendsbwcaw/ Donate: https://www.friends-bwca.org/donate/

In this episode, we dive into the unexpected high water conditions in the Boundary Waters this season. After a dry winter, Northeastern Minnesota faced a surprisingly wet spring and early summer, culminating in a major storm on June 18th that caused flash flooding and damage across the Superior National Forest. We sit down with Ginny Nelson from Spirit of the Wilderness Outfitters in Ely to discuss how these conditions have affected outfitters and Boundary Waters visitors. Ginny shares her experiences managing customer safety during road washouts and entry point closures, and respecting one's abilities in the face of challenging weather. This episode provides essential information for anyone planning a trip to the Boundary Waters and underscores the vital role outfitters play in ensuring visitor safety and enjoyment in this beloved wilderness area. Spirit of the Wilderness Outfitters https://elycanoetrips.com/ Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. Website: https://www.friends-bwca.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BWCAW Twitter: https://twitter.com/FriendsBWCAW YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/FriendsOfTheBWCA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/friendsbwcaw/ Donate: https://www.friends-bwca.org/donate/

"The same thing that makes you live can kill you in the end." - Neil Young In this episode, we sit down with Northwoods reporter and author Joe Friedrichs to discuss his new book, "Last Entry Point." Friedrichs shares real-life accounts of those who have faced life-threatening situations and tragically lost their lives in the serene yet unforgiving Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Through his years of writing, exploring, and researching this iconic region, Friedrichs reminds us that even the most well-prepared adventurers can encounter unexpected challenges when venturing into the great outdoors. Join us as we delve into the risks of wilderness travel and the stories that inspired Friedrichs to write this compelling new book. Order the book from Drury Lane Books in Grand Marais. Follow Paddle and Portage. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. Website: https://www.friends-bwca.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BWCAW Twitter: https://twitter.com/FriendsBWCAW YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/FriendsOfTheBWCA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/friendsbwcaw/ Donate: https://www.friends-bwca.org/donate/

On this episode of the Big Red Canoe podcast, we're joined by Devin Brown and Cory Maria Dack to discuss their remarkable paddling journeys down the Mississippi River. Devin Brown is preparing to become the first Black woman on record to solo kayak the entire length of the Mississippi River, from its source in Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. Her trip planned for 2024 is driven by a dream over a decade in the making - to find healing and connection for self, and to connect with African American history along the Missisippi. Cory Maria Dack might be Devin's biggest cheerleader. She has already accomplished the incredible feat of paddling the Mississippi River in a canoe in 2022. And she brings her experience of a relationship with the land, water, and people along the way while increasing representation of diverse identities on the river. As Devin and Cory share their powerful stories, we learn about their experiences as paddlers and the survival trips of navigating the river and its communal network of River Angels that will help make Devin's upcoming solo journey a success. Their conversation touches on themes of healing, nature connection, ancestral history, and being a role model for future generations. You'll leave this podcast knowing more about what it takes to travel on such a monumental paddle, the logistics and community support required, and the physical and emotional journeys represented by descending this iconic American river. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode, and https://www.gofundme.com/f/get-er-down-the-river to support Devin's upcoming trip.  Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. Website: https://www.friends-bwca.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BWCAW Twitter: https://twitter.com/FriendsBWCAW YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/FriendsOfTheBWCA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/friendsbwcaw/ Donate: https://www.friends-bwca.org/donate/

On July 4, 1999, in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), a bizarre confluence of meteorological events resulted in the most  damaging blowdown in the region’s history. Originating over the Dakotas,  the midsummer windstorm developed amid unusually high heat and  water-saturated forests and moved steadily east, bearing down on Fargo,  North Dakota, and damaging land as it crossed the Minnesota border. Author Cary Griffith joins us to talk about his book Gunflint Falling,  the story of this devastating storm from the perspectives of those on the ground before, during, and after the catastrophic  event—from first-time visitors to the north woods to returning paddlers to Forest Service Rangers. And host Dave Meier discusses the climate impacts that contributed to the blowdown and changing landscape of the Boundary Waters, while telling his own blowdown story.  Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode, and https://www.carygriffith.com for more information on his other books, and how to buy a copy of Gunflint Falling. Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. Website: https://www.friends-bwca.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BWCAW Twitter: https://twitter.com/FriendsBWCAW YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/FriendsOfTheBWCA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/friendsbwcaw/ Donate: https://www.friends-bwca.org/donate/

We revisit the fascinating story of the legislative and political battles leading up to the Boundary Waters Wilderness Protection Act of 1978 by talking to three of the individuals who shaped it and fought for its passage: Chuck Dayton, Jan Green, and Kevin Proescholdt.  In this look at a key chapter in Boundary Waters history, they share their insights and personal experiences that led to this important step for the BWCA Wilderness, and founding of the Friends of the Boundary Waters. They also reflect on how the lessons learned from that time period can be applied to the current efforts of the Friends, to protect the wilderness.  You can further their important work by DONATING to Friends of the Boundary Waters during Give to the Max - where your gift will be matched by other generous supporters. DOUBLE your impact with a gift during Give to the Max! And thank you for being a Friend!  Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode.  Visit https://www.friends-bwca.org/podcast for more information and resources from this episode. Website: https://www.friends-bwca.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BWCAW Twitter: https://twitter.com/FriendsBWCAW YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/FriendsOfTheBWCA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/friendsbwcaw/ Donate: https://www.friends-bwca.org/donate/