In this episode I’m joined by the co-founders of the nonprofit Bright Shadow, Chris Gragtmans, accomplished whitewater kayaker, and Somerville Johnston, licensed professional counselor. Bright Shadow creates intentional spaces for community healing and reconnection for those grieving losses to and of the natural world — a topic that’s often overlooked in high-performance communities.
Together, they share how Bright Shadow came to be and why they believe it's important to acknowledge the personal impact of loss in outdoor and paddling spaces.
✨ You’ll hear:
💔 Why grief is relevant in outdoor and paddling communities
🌲 How Bright Shadow supports those navigating loss
🧘 Practical somatic and peer-based approaches to healing
🎧 Reflections on how vulnerability can strengthen—not weaken—our experience as athletes and leaders
If you’ve ever struggled with how to support yourself or others through loss in the context of outdoor adventure, this episode offers insight, tools, and perspective.
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