What does it mean to reconnect with your river, your culture, and your courage — all through the power of kayaking?
In this episode of The Discomfort Zone, I sit down with Ruby Williams, a Quartz Valley tribal member and Kuduk person raised along the banks of the Klamath River in Happy Camp, California. Ruby’s paddling journey began in 2022 with Paddle Tribal Waters, and has since taken her from the first full descent of the 310-mile Klamath, to training in Chile, Canada, and Africa.
Ruby shares how kayaking has transformed her relationship with fear, taught her the power of choosing her own challenges, and deepened her connection to community, leadership, and her ancestral river.
💡 In this episode, you’ll hear Ruby’s reflections on:
🌊 Running the full 310-mile descent of the Klamath River
💪 Learning that courage doesn’t mean never being scared
🧠 The difference between “good” and “bad” discomfort
🤝 How supportive mentors and crew make all the difference
🔥 Finding her voice as a young Indigenous leader
🌍 Why rivers are more than water — they’re culture, protest, and connection
If you’ve ever wondered how paddling can shape identity, courage, and connection far beyond the rapids — this conversation will inspire you.
🎧 Listen now to hear Ruby’s story of courage, culture, and flow.
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