Paddling The Blue Podcast

Welcome to today’s episode of the Paddling the Blue podcast! 

I was paddling with some friends recently and someone mentioned Darcy Gaechter. Darcy is an extraordinary adventurer and author of Amazon Woman. Darcy's journey down the Amazon River set a milestone as the first and only woman to paddle the entire length of the river. The paddler I was with was fascinated by Darcy’s story so I thought this would be a great opportunity to...

Join us for an exciting encore episode of 'Paddling the Blue' as as we revisit a fun conversation with Justine Curgenven.

Dive into Justine's incredible journey through Alaska's remote Aleutian Island chain with Sarah Outen. Learn about her preparations, the breathtaking landscapes, and unique wildlife encounters. This episode is packed with inspiration for kayakers and adventurers alike. Plus, discover how Justine's stories contin...

Join me in a conversation with adventurous paddlers Andy Mullins and Geoff Cater. Under the banner of Midlife Kayak, Andy and Geoff share their experiences, challenges, and the unique bond of friendship forged through sea kayaking.

Embark on an inspiring story that navigates from the scenic coasts of Cornwall to the thrilling waters of Ireland. This episode explores not only the thrills of paddling around the prominent British Isle...

Today's episode of Paddling the Blue features a riveting conversation with sea kayaker Mathew Schweitzer. Alongside Andy Gill and Brody Duncan, Mathew embarked on a grueling 32-day kayaking expedition through the majestic fjords of Patagonia, from Puerto Eden to Puerto Natales. Facing unpredictable weather, majestic glaciers, and numerous challenges, this episode delves into the highs and lows of their adventure.

Mathew shares insi...

In this episode of Paddling the Blue, John talks with Paul Mellor, an adventurer who has conquered marathons in all 50 U.S. states, cycled across the USA, and most recently, paddled the full length of the Mississippi River. Paul shares his stories of unwavering determination, the challenges of river life, and the remarkable kindness of the people he met along the way. 

Connect:

• Mellor Memory

Learn:

• Strokes of Kindne...

In this episode of Paddling the Blue, Tom Thorpe discusses his experiences in coasteering, climbing, and sea kayaking, and how each sport and a thirst for new experiences has influenced his personal and professional growth. He also delves into the intricacies of navigating the challenging waters surrounding the Outer Hebrides and shares insights into his solo circumnavigation of Ireland.

Learn

• Isle of Lewis
• The Scaladale Activ...

In this episode of Paddling the Blue, John talks with James Roberts, co-owner of Sea Kayak Cornwall, to explore the  sea kayaking opportunities that Cornwall offers. James shares his journey into paddle sports coaching and discusses some of the must-experience kayaking spots in Cornwall, including the iconic Land's End,  mysterious old mining caves, and  exhilarating tide races.

We explore the diversity of the paddling landscape, f...

Join us for today's episode of Paddling the Blue as we journey with Patrik Skovajsa as he transforms from a novice stumbling in cold waters to an adventurer on the Danube River and beyond. With tales of lost wedding rings and solo trips spanning across Europe, discover the challenges and beauty of paddling all 10 countries the Danube touches, and what it's like having a dog as your kayaking companion. 

• Danube Kayaker
• You Tube
• ...

Join me as we navigate the vibrant atmosphere of Canoecopia, the world's largest paddle sports expo.

Billed as the world’s largest paddlesports expo, Canoecopia features more than 100,000 square feet of canoes, kayaks, kit, outfitters, everything you can imagine, plus more than 100 speakers on an incredible array of topics and I am honored to be one of those speakers. Thanks to Chris Hipgrave and the entire P&H Pyranha kayaks t...

Join this for week's episode of the Paddling the Blue podcast as we take you to the 30th annual Quiet Adventures Symposium in Lansing, Michigan. This episode features conversations with show exhibitors and enthusiasts in the world of Great Lakes paddling, including representatives from the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, Michigan Sea Grant, the BOAT Bus, the Wolf Moose Foundation, The Connected Paddler, and Woods and Waters Adventures....

Robin Ruddock is a respected advocate for sea kayaking and environmental conservation on Ireland's picturesque Causeway Coast. In this episode, we delve into Robin's extensive career, during which he has introduced over 20,000 young people to the joys of paddling and the unique natural history of Ireland's North Coast.

Robin shares his personal paddling story, the rich folklore, and the breathtaking beauty of the Causeway Coastline...

Wendy Killoran joins today's episode of the Paddling the Blue podcast. Wendy is a passionate sea kayaker and adventurer and she shares her transformation from elementary teacher to a paddling nomad, living life on her own terms. As she takes us through her extensive kayaking experiences, from circling Prince Edward Island to the rugged shores of Newfoundland, Wendy reveals how these journeys have helped her feel more alive and conn...

Steve Whetman, is a renowned innovator in the kayaking world. Known for his unique approach to everyday paddling gear, Steve takes us behind the scenes of his creative and engineering process, from initial ideas to market-ready products. Enjoy a fun-filled discussion with insights into product development and the challenges of bringing an idea to life. And, product development isn't always serious, especially when it comes to givin...

In today's episode of Paddling the Blue, we are talking with renowned kayak designer and builder Rob Feloy. Rob shares the intricate process of creating kayaks specifically designed for some of the world's most extreme paddling expeditions, including famous crossings from Greenland to Scotland and from California to Hawaii.

Rob shares insights into the specialized design considerations that go into making trans-oceanic craft, empha...

Welcome to today’s episode of Paddling the Blue. Thanks for joining me for this special replay edition.

I’m taking a much needed break around the holidays. This is actually my first break from releasing an entirely new episode in more than four years! Thank you for continuing to listen and support the Paddling the Blue podcast.

I interviewed Cyril Derreumaux in October 2022, just a couple weeks after he completed his solo kayak fro...

In today's episode of the Paddling the Blue podcast, John is joined by the adventurous Barry Shaw, who takes us through his incredible journey from a novice to a seasoned paddler, making bold crossings to Ireland, St. Kilda, and even going around Britain.

Barry shares his experiences of challenges and triumphs on the waters, his strong bond of friendship with fellow kayakers, and the invaluable lessons learned along the way. From g...

Welcome to today's episode of Paddling the Blue.

In this special feature, we dive deep into the world of the Yukon River Quest, an exciting race set in the stunning landscape of Canada’s Yukon territory. Four veteran racers, Thomas Schillig, Bill Siersdorfer, Mirko Prufer, and Esther Wheeler,  share their unique experiences and why this challenging event holds a special place in their hearts.

This episode offers a glimpse into the ...

Felipe Behrens joins todays thrilling episode of Paddling the Blue , fresh from his incredible 189-day kayaking journey around the UK and Ireland. Felipe shares the story of his ambitious expedition, highlighting his meticulous skill-building process that prepared him for this monumental adventure.

Throughout the episode, Felipe recounts his experiences, the challenges he faced, and the vibrant kayaking community that supported him...

In this episode of Paddling the Blue, host John Chase welcomes Caoimhe Connor to discuss the hidden treasures of Ireland's East Coast. Caoimhe shares her insights into the often-overlooked paddling opportunities in this picturesque region, highlighting its unique landscapes and vibrant wildlife.

Caoimhe also delves into her personal experiences with the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), offering valuable advice for paddle...