Next Level Skiing

Allen Tran is a high-performance dietitian and chef for the US Ski Team. Today, he will tell us how to convert regular meals into power-boosting food for your next run. Tune in to hear how Allen does his job and helps athletes perform at their peak. Topics: [01:50] Allen got his start by going to culinary school and worked in the culinary industry for years. [02:09] He then got a Masters in sports nutrition and exercise physiology. [03:07] He preps with athletes in the summer to see what their goals are for the upcoming season. [05:16] You want enough food to fuel your performance, but you don't want to overdo it on competition day. [08:12] The whole role of a sports snack is convenience. [12:22] Listen to your body and figure out if you need more snacks and where to fit in meals. [15:45] Sherpas in the Himalayas tend to eat higher fat diets, which is great for slower burning energy. [18:55] Allen likes to take traditional recipes and turn them on their heads. [23:10] At high altitudes, alcohol is something to avoid. [23:37] It's so easy to get dehydrated in high altitudes. [24:16] It's important to strike a nice balance when eating (not too light, not too heavy). [29:01] A lot of athletes have specific preferences, which means Allen has to travel with a lot of stuff. [29:23] Going overseas can make meeting preferences tricky. [30:25] When overseas, Allen always has to make sure the water and meat are safe. [35:15] When it comes to powdered foods, there's a time and a place. Quotes: " 'You train really hard, so the day of competition is easy' is one of those cliche sayings." "Comfort food does have its place." "When these fad diets come in and out of vogue...it can all be worked out, as long as you use real food." Resources: Wagner Custom Skis

On this episode, I speak with Jonathan Ellsworth, Founder of CEO of Crested Butte's Blister review website. He has made it his mission to test and review the latest gear, in order to pass on knowledge to other skiers. Tune in to hear us talk about Blister and how Jonathan approaches his reviews. Topics: [02:05] Jonathan grew up in the Chicagoland area, not anywhere near a ski area. [02:50] He thinks his late start in skiing is key to Blister's success. [03:00] When an injury ended his football career, he threw himself into his studies in kinesiology. [04:14] Jonathan went to New Mexico to work on his dissertation, which gave him access to the mountains. [04:47] He took a year off of school to do everything he could in the mountains and never went back to Chicago. [07:04] Blister does not accept money from gear manufacturers that they review, which is in contrast to a lot of ski publications. [08:50] He wants to make sure his revenue streams don't undermine his work. [09:30] Integrity and credibility is everything. [11:15] Blister employs 6 or 7 reviewers to do most of the ski gear reviews, but employs 50-60 freelancers. [14:10] By coming late into skiing, Jonathan has a greater appreciation for gear that improves performance. [15:24] Skiing and ski design stole so many good ideas that came from snowboarding. [18:26] Jonathan has spent a lot of time telling people lightweight skis suck. [21:50] Making lightweight gear is such a thing now. [22:00] Manufacturers try to say that you don't lose performance, but this isn't 100% true. [25:08] There are still hundreds of thousands of skiers out there in incorrectly sized boots. [26:45] If you're an intermediate skier, get yourself to a boot-fitter. [27:24] Heat-moldable shells are becoming more common for ski boots. [27:55] If you have trickier feet, heat-moldable shells are the way to go. [30:15] Jonathan has to be intentional with his workouts, because his time is limited. [30:40] You absolutely must stretch your hamstrings. [39:15] Crested Butte has a lot of steep terrain. [39:45] Jonathan thinks the more scared you are of the terrain in front of you, the more forward you should be on your skis. Quotes: "Institutional trust: right? That's not just a problem in the world of outdoor sports reviews, that's a problem at the biggest levels of government…" "Tip and tail rocker...has really opened up the sport in a super significant way." "Do not buy your ski boots online and have them show up in a box...go to an experienced boot-fitter…" Resources: Blister Wagner Skis

On this episode, I get to chat with Hilaree Nelson, the world's greatest ski mountaineer. She and her partner were two of the very first people to climb and ski the fourth highest peak in the entire world. She has pursued a life of mountain exploration. Tune in to hear us discuss her career and how she prepares for big challenges. Topics: [02:21] Hilaree was on the race team, but she never skied a single gate. [02:54] Her background isn't in racing and she's jealous of people who have it. [03:39] She saw a huge deficit in her own skiing and did her best to ski with those who were better than her in order to learn more. [08:06] Ski technology has changed and has changed the way we ski. [10:26] Her experience climbing the fourth highest peak in the world was unmatched and emotional. [14:40] It's important to just try things instead of talking yourself out of great experiences. [18:05] With age, comes experience and wisdom. [22:20] To prepare for her biggest challenge, she made sure to prep on difficult terrain. [28:45] Hilaree has been working with North Face on product development. [29:00] She is also becoming a climate change activist, because she wants to protect all the beautiful places she has been. [30:20] She got a great tip to drive her tip, but lift her tails when making turns in tight terrain. Quotes: "Chamonix isn't just about the skiing, it's so much about how you access the skiing…" "I just think there is so much value in saying 'yes' to things...and the actual act of trying." "As a young person, you're making all these sort of instantaneous decisions...it's just freedom." Resources: Hilaree's Website Wagner Skis

On today's episode, our guest is Kim Reichhelm. Kim is an NCAA All-American Ski Racer, who pioneered big mountain skiing. Considered one of the most influential American skiers, her clinics, camps, and trips have helped other skiers hone their skills. Join us as we discuss how she got into skiing, the ways in which skiing has changed, and how she runs her clinics. Topics: [02:00] Kim grew up in a competitive, athletic family. [03:06] Kim's father decided the family was going to take up skiing. [04:01] By age six, Kim knew she wanted to be on a ski team. [06:38] It's in her nature to push the envelope. [10:00] Changes Kim has observed in the industry. [10:28] Kids doing big mountain skiing now, grew up with it. [14:00] How Kim runs her clinics and trains skiers. [20:20] When people can't see where they're going, it's stressful and intimidating. [22:18] Helping other skiers feel confident. Quotes: "I was fortunate enough to start skiing a hundred days a year from the time I was twelve." "The envelope has just been pushed so much harder...especially for the women." "When I'm guiding and teaching...I really try to take small steps and build confidence." Resources: Wagner Custom Skis

On today's episode, I get the chance to speak with Wendy Fisher, a former member of the U.S. Ski Team who walked away from skiing, only to get back into big mountain skiing later on. She now works at Crested Butte Mountain Resort, guiding people through the steeps. She also runs an annual camp out of Chile. Tune in to hear us talk about her career, he life in Crested Butte, and how she learned to overcome fear. Topics: [02:19] Every summer, she brings her kids out to her hometown of Tahoe to take advantage of "lake life". [03:45] People bag on racing now, because they think it restricts people from having fun and enjoying the sport. [04:10] Wendy doesn't agree and thinks it increased her love of the sport. [04:28] She was heartbroken to leave the team, but knew it was time to go. [06:15] Before she quit skiing and gave up a college skiing scholarship, she decided to go ski one last winter just for fun. [07:08] She ended up in Crested Butte during an extreme skiing contest. [07:20] She was encouraged to enter the contest and it brought her back to life. [08:04] When watching the men compete, she felt she had better technique than all of them. [08:45] On her second run, she took a different path over a rocky headwall. [10:38] She woke up one day and decided to continue to follow the competition circuit. [11:45] She free-skied as a kid and her racing coach made the sport fun for her, which is different from how it is today. [12:10] She enjoyed the structure of Burke Academy. [12:35] Her amazing technical training contributed to her success as a free-skier. [18:47] When skiing steeps, people often forget their form and end up on their heels. [19:11] Wendy will take people out on less challenging terrain to improve their skills before taking them back to the steeps. [25:21] What helped Wendy learn how to teach was taking up skateboarding. [27:18] She even looped her son into her skateboard lessons. [28:48] Often, there is a taboo about taking lessons. [29:05] Wendy feels that if you want to get better, you have to invest in lessons. [32:05] Because they live in a mountain town, Wendy was determined to get her kids into skiing. [34:45] Wendy tried to back off and let her kids learn from instructors, but eventually, she couldn't help but intervene and improve their fundamentals. [39:41] How Wendy discovered spontaneity and how it has affected the rest of her life. [41:20] Skiing with big mountain skiers and heliskiing, she was terrified, but there was gratification in completing big runs. [41:41] This is how she can relate to her clients and often talks herself through terrifying runs. Quotes: "I had so many issues with letting go of skiing and I wasn't ready to...so to find this avenue, I just ran with it and don't regret it at all." "If you really want to get better and you don't want to be frustrated, you have to invest the time." "You start to doubt yourself, so you have to find these things to keep yourself in the game and to help build up your confidence and I still do that today…" Resources: Wendy's Website Wagner Custom Skis

On today's episode, we have Evan Reece. Evan co-founded Liftopia, a consumer platform and back-of-house revenue management system for resorts. Today, the company works with more than 250 resorts worldwide and is the largest ticket sales operation in North America. Tune in to hear us discuss how Liftopia came about, how it works, and why loyal customers are some of the most resort-disloyal people. Topics: [02:44] Before starting Liftopia, Evan had been working for HotWire. [03:25] Before Liftopia, people hadn't been buying lift tickets online. [04:40] People hadn't been offering this service, because ski resorts didn't think their customers bought tickets this way. [05:20] Resorts believed their customers wouldn't buy tickets this way, because they had never done so before. [07:32] Evan wanted to create a way to reduce risk for the resorts and increase profitability. [08:42] Competitors' models are similar. [11:30] Multi-resort passes are for adventurers, but they are also the least loyal customers. [13:20] In the end, everyone just wants to ski more. [15:08] Icon and Epic passes are reshaping the industry. [16:02] In terms of passes, Evan doesn't like to pick sides. [16:40] People often switch season passes from year to year. [17:20] The pass you choose depends on if you drive, fly, or are a destination traveler. [19:33] The most surprising thing found in Liftopia's consumer survey, is that a lot of season pass holders are using their consumer brand. [21:12] Skiers love to find new experiences and explore new terrain. [21:33] Overall, people are seeking value. [25:50] When regional mountains try to match the prices of larger mountains, they cut out a large community of skiers. [28:04] Skiers love the passes, because they spend the same amount they used to spend on one mountain for multiple mountains. [29:14] Evan has skied less since having a family. [31:30] The industry wants you to buy in advance, as it's better for everyone involved. [33:39] Skiing isn't just about carving down the hill, it's about the overall experience. [34:11] If Evan lived on the East Coast, he'd be spending more time in Europe, as the cost of skiing is lower and it provides a great cultural experience. [35:40] The growth rate has to slow down at some point, because the only way to draw in new skiers is to make the season pass cost less than a day pass. [36:58] The new Epic Day Pass is a great option that can bring the cost down significantly. [39:24] Core skiers used to mean something different than it does today. [41:50] Commit early and be adventurous!

On today's episode, I speak with Lindsay Andersen, a verteran guide at Canadain Mountain Holiday's Bobbie Burns lodge. Throughout her career, she has led hundreds of clients through the steepest and deepest terrain. Topics: [01:52] Lindsay was born and raised in Banff, so she was skiing by the age of two. [03:07] She took avalanche courses through Lake Louise and the Canadian Avalanche Association. [05:16] Lindsay hopes she is a mentor to all people coming up in the industry. [07:05] People are intimidated by powder skiing, but it's actually easier than skiing on hard pack. [08:49] It can be hard to get people to relax in powder, so she always tells people to watch her form. [09:06] You want to be centered on your skis and use a shorter pole. [11:52] To get people used to speed, Lindsay likes to take them in gladed terrain. [13:55] Lindsay has seen CMH's VR video that helps prepare people for the heli-skiing experience and she loves it; she thinks it really encapsulates the actual experience. [18:54] In order to put or keep people at ease, Lindsay feels that her naturally soft voice and nurturing personality are key. [19:48] She is an open, honest, people-person. [20:53] There is always a low-level amount of stress in a guide's life, because it's a huge responsibility. [21:43] She hopes to always convey the fun of skiing. [23:14] Lindsay tries not to say too much, but makes a point to say what is important. [24:16] She picks up a lot by skiing with other guides from other locations. [27:00] A great tip she picked up was, if conditions get a bit tricky, pull your toes up in your boot. Quotes: "I always tell people before they come skiing with us to try and be as fit as possible." "If people are really nervous...we'll just manage that with the terrain selection." "To get actually emotional watching [the VR video], it was pretty powerful." Resources: CMH Bobbie Burns Lodge Wagner Skis

On today's episode, I get the chance to speak with Chris Davenport, one of the world's most accomplished big mountain skiers. Initially, as the grandchild of a skiing pioneer and child of a ski racer, Chris started out as a racer, himself. Eventually, he transitioned into free skiing and that has since become his passion. During our discussion, we talk about his history with skiing, how Chris is a lifelong student of skiing, and why he thinks all skiers should take up the fight against global warming. Tune in to hear a great conversation with someone who knows the language of the mountains. Topics: [02:02] Chris grew up skiing on a small mountain. [02:10] His grandfather was a big skier and was involved in the founding of New Hampshire's Mount Cranmore. [02:24] HIs father was also a Ski Racer at the University of Denver. [03:26] Chris was a Racer at the University of Colorado. [03:56] Ultimately, he enjoyed free skiing more than racing. [04:50] A certain racing event turned the tide for Chris and he decided he wanted to pursue skiing professionally. [05:20] A friend of his convinced him to compete in the race in Crested Butte. [07:13] That summer, he went to Las Leñas, where he learned a lot from Doug Koontz. [08:33] Chris' is heading down to Chile to run his eighteenth ski clinic. [10:15] Clinic attendees often have trepidation, because they are working with professional skiers. [10:50] Chris discusses staying open to new experiences and continuing to improve his skills as a skier. [13:10] Each clinic client has their own needs, so the clinic focuses on improving the individual without a set script or schedule. [13:44] One of Chris' camp attendees went on to win the Freeride World Tour. [15:40] Teaching people to grab the bull by the horns comes with its challenges. [21:17] Factoring in different types of terrain when training people to be better skiers. [23:15] What is means to pay your dues as a skier. [23:30] How to master the "language of the mountains". [28:32] The importance of combating global warming. [30:40] Chris' work with Protect our Winters and why it is important for other skiers to get involved. [32:40] What people can do to be more "green". [34:40] Finding his tribe in Crested Butte at the Extreme Skiing Championships. [35:34] How POW is focused on the upcoming midterm elections. [36:53] Chris favorite motivational quote is "A goal without a plan is just a wish." [37:12] He thinks younger people have goals, but don't have actual plans of action. [38:00] He also likes the term, "knees to skis." It's a great reminder about form and keeps him aligned on the mountain. Quotes: "It's that passion and love of the sport...it just permeates the whole camp and the whole atmosphere." -Chris Davenport "I've heard a number of times from clients after the camp, that they went into it...having the pros built up on this pedestal and then in the end they realized we're just skiers, just like they are." -Chris Davenport "Skiing is all about experience: you have to pay your dues." -Chris Davenport Resources: Wagner Custom Skis Protect Our Winters Chris Davenport's Website

Klaus Obermeyer is a living legend. He has had the amazing privilege to see every technological advancement in skiing from the very beginning of the sport. He is 98 years-old and still has a great passion for the sport. If you're in Aspen, you may even run into him on the Mountain. Tune in to hear Klaus discuss the early days of skiing, his method for teaching beginners, and his secret to a long and healthy life. Topics: [01:55] Klaus made his first pair of skis at two years-old. [02:08] He used the chestnut boards from some orange crates. [03:06] He built a small jump out of snow and generally had a great time sliding around on snow. [03:30] When he was around 4 or 5 years-old, a Norwegian man made him a pair of real skis. [04:45] A Doctor in Hamburg made the first metal ski edges. [06:05] People used different types of wood to make skis, but Americans used Hickory. Hickory is tough, but flexible. [08:58] Klaus made sure that when teaching beginners, he wouldn't do anything to scare them; scared skiers are stiff skiers. [10:25] When snowboarding came around, it influenced the shape of skis. The shorter and wider skis are great for skiing in heavy, chunky snow. [13:00] Klaus worked to create ski clothing that enhanced the skiing experience; they wanted to make warm, comfortable clothing. [14:25] Klaus still skis, but won't ski in a storm or when it's icy. [14:58] At his age, he finds it easier to ski than it is to walk. [15:32] Klaus says the key is to not eat more calories than you burn, workout every day, keep your bones under pressure, and make sure your body is always used to working. [16:15] Never give up working out; Klaus likes swimming. [17:25] Klaus learned a lot about skiing from a sheep herder, who was the first person who knew how to make parallel turns. [18:10] The sheep herder skied to school everyday. [22:00] Norwegians skied for reasons of survival. [24:55] In terms of keeping skiing popular, Klaus says to "just let it happen" and "enjoy the feeling of sliding on snow" Quotes: "It was a pleasure to see how these skis got...a little bit better. And the sport of skiing kept changing…" -Klaus Obermeyer "...In 1947, there was practically no ski clothing...We developed a lot of it and then got copied by people. The aim was to make ski clothing that makes skiing more enjoyable…" -Klaus Obermeyer "At this point of my age, at 98 and a half years-old, it's easier to ski than it is to walk." -Klaus Obermeyer Resources: Wagner Custom Skis Klaus' Biography on Obermeyer's Website

On today's episode, I get to chat with Dr. Tom Hackett. Tom started out as a member of the Jackson Hole Ski Patrol before becoming an Orthopedic Surgeon. He took an interest in not just fixing injuries, but trying to understand why injuries happen. This is what lead him to his success as a Doctor and he now serves as the Orthopedic Surgeon for the US Ski Team, among other notable patients. During our discussion, we get into the meat of why we hurt ourselves and the group of muscles we must strengthen in order to prevent a serious, but common injury. Tune in to hear about Dr. Hackett's fascinating life and his professional endeavors as an Orthopedic Surgeon. Topics: [2:50] Tom loves to operate, but he is more interested in what we can do to prevent injuries. [03:15] He was on the Jackson Hole Ski Patrol in the late 80's through the early 90's. [05:24] With more extreme tricks, comes greater risk for injury. [08:20] The Japanese Ski Team has a safety device, which isn't available to other athletes from different nations [10:29] Right now, Tom is focusing on the hip. [10:44] Some of the hip abductors are key to protecting the knee. [11:05] To protect your knee, you need to strengthen your hip. [11:20] Beginner snowboarders almost always hurt their wrists, whereas experts always have knee injuries. [14:54] There is a group of hip muscles for which you can do exercises. Anything that works your hips and glutes is key to protecting your knee from injury. [17:20] Tom likes to tell young, enthusiastic skiers and snowboarders to slow down and to be conscious of potential risk. [20:36] Tom sees people whose skis didn't release and rarely sees injury to people whose skis release easily. [24:00] Tom discusses the allure and subsequent risk of terrain parks. [24:38] Tom has found that the severity of injuries is inversely proportional to snowfall. Quotes: "These are winter sports, there's always some time of adverse conditions." -Dr. Tom Hackett "You need your quad muscles for performance, and stamina, and driving your ski; but you've gotta have the hip strong, as well…" -Dr. Tom Hackett "If you stay on the ground, you have a much higher chance of staying upright." -Dr. Tom Hackett Resources: Wagner Custom Skis Dr. Hackett's Website

Jim Lindsay is a master boot fitter in Aspen. He works at BootTech creating customized boots for skiers. These boots can often make a huge difference in a skiers stance. Tune in to hear us talk about the importance of a good fit, Jim's interest in orthotics and biomechanics, and what kind of difference a properly fitted boot can make. Topics: [02:04] Jim says that everyone is (or should be) familiar with the idea that you can change a ski's performance by changing its angle. Whereas most people believe that if a boot fits comfortably, there is nothing else to consider. [02:33] Jim says it's about adapting the boot to fit your unique anatomy. [04:50] Jim grew up skiing in Wisconsin, then went to a ski academy in Vermont for High School. [05:10] Once he realized what he wanted to do, he went to school in the summer to learn about orthotics, orthopedics, and biomechanics of the lower extremity. [05:30] Even though he works at the bottom of a major mountain, he doesn't get to ski every day of the season. [05:53] Throughout the 80's he did boot fittings at the Aspen Highlands. Then he did speciality Orthotics in Aspen under the Gondola, as well as a shop at Snowmass. [06:35] Once Jim fit someone in a boot, it would improve their skiing significantly. [07:02] The simple thing of changing someone's stance can greatly improve their abilities. [07:45] In the 80's, boot fitting was primarily focused on comfort. [12:40] Jim explains his method to fitting different types of boots and what you can do to improve your fit, based on your needs. [16:00] Jim continues to fit Jason into a boot and discusses the consequences of an ill-fitting boot. [19:00] Jim's ski philosophy and how it relates to boot fitting. [19:50] It's important to talk to your boot fitter and communicate your needs. Quotes: "...Adapting the boot to complement your anatomy and making your angles and the boots angles all fit together." -Jim Lindsay "Very often, someone's needs will determine what type of boot they have." -JIm Lindsay "If the first thing your boot fitter does is go through and evaluate a whole bunch of things about your anatomy, instead of asking you what type of terrain you like to ski and what size shoe you wear, that's a bad sign." -Jim Lindsay Resources: Wagner Custom Skis BootTech Inc.

Today, I had the chance to speak with Olympic skier, Tommy Moe. Tommy joined the US Ski Team at only sixteen years-old. He spent twelve years as a member of the team and won the silver and gold medals at Lillehammer in 1994. Today, he works as a Ski Guide in Jackson Hole and is one of the Heli-Skier guides at the amazing Tordrillo Mountain Lodge in Alaska. Listen in to hear about Tommy's journey as an Olympic skier, what he did to improve his technique, and how skiing has changed since his days on the US Ski Team. Topics: [01:45] In 2005, Mike Overcast and Tommy opened up a Heli-Skiing business in Alaska. [02:30] Tommy starting skiing at a young age in Montana, where his father was a member of the ski patrol. [03:18] He joined the US Ski Team in 1986 at Copper Mountain. [03:32] When he was 12, he moved to Alaska, where he attended a ski academy. His training there lead to his becoming a member of the US Ski Team. [05:20] He had the bug from an early age and this lead him to pursue skiing with a fiery determination. [06:08] Tommy went to summer camp at Mt. Hood, when Phil and Steve Mayer talked to the kids about being on the World Cup team. [06:36] When Tommy started racing at a young age, he always had the drive to improve and keep up with others. [07:55] You can improve simply by skiing with your friends. [08:32] If you want to improve, Tommy suggests hiring a ski instructor or attending a ski clinic. [08:54] There are great "steep and deep" camps at Jackson Hole. [10:15] When he was racing on the Ski Team, they would video tape everything, so they could analyze their techniques. [10:48] When Tommy was a younger skier, he was aggressive, but had a loose style. [11:18] When he started improving his form, he focused on improving his angulation and form. [12:45] Improving his angulation was one of the best things Tommy did to improve his technique. [13:15] The construction of skis is so different now and it allows for amazing turns where you won't "boot out". [15:25] Ski tech has improved so much that you can now stand on both feet and equally weight your skis. [15:50] In this day and age, you're doing race turns with 60% of your weight on the outside foot and 40% on the inside. [16:05] It looks like perfect railroad tracks, which is vastly different from how it was even in the 80's. [17:45] Most of the Heli-Skiers are pretty seasoned skiers, but Tommy likes it when he gets people who ask for advice. [19:00] Tommy works as a Ski Guide in Jackson Hole, as well. If he sees someone having a hard time, he will give them pointers that will help them attack the mountain. [20:30] Skiing is a lot like dancing, in that everyone has their own technique. [21:30] Tommy believes that you always want to be on the offensive when skiing. [22:54] The Art of Skiing is a classic book that still serves as a great resource. [24:22] Tommy's dad used to let him skip school to ski on powder days. [24:30] Now, Tommy is dealing with teaching his young daughters to ski. [25:04] His kids are just as enthusiastic about skiing as their parents (Tommy's wife was also an Olympic skier). [27:30] Tommy and Jason discuss the quick feet of various Olympic skiers and how techniques have changed over the years. [28:45] Tommy thanks everyone that has a passion for the sport and encourages enthusiasts to get out there and keep working on their skills. Quotes: "I always dreamed about being in the Olympics and, luckily enough, I was able to compete in three." -Tommy Moe "A lot of times, in skiing, if you want to improve, it's usually just one thing at a time." -Tommy Moe "A lot of times, when you powder ski, it's about rhythm." -Tommy Moe Resources: Wagner Custom Skis Tordrillo Mountain Lodge Tommy's Bio Page on the TML Website

Chris Steiner is a Chicago-based father of three, New York Times Best-Selling Author, Tech Founder and Engineer. In spite of his busy schedule, he always manages to score the best powder days in every season. Chris created ZRankings.com, a site that ranks all of the ski resorts in North America based on an algorithm he calls the "pure awesomeness factor". Listen in as we discuss the best resorts and when to ski them. Chris serves as a fount of knowledge when it comes to the best times to visit various North American ski resorts, so tune in and start planning your ski trips! Topics: [03:20] It's hard to move to a ski town at any point, but the best time is probably in your twenties. [03:46] Since he lives in Chicago, Chris is very cognizant of where he travels to ski and when. [04:43] A good early season pick is Steamboat, CO. [05:38] Because he has three children, he has to plan his trips more carefully. [06:01] Chicago has a lot of direct flights to many ski locations. [07:42] ZRankings worked with Open Snow and Google to create a feature that finds "powder fares" on airlines. [08:15] Dallas is a place that has a lot of great direct flights to ski locations. [09:20] Chris loves Jackson Hole and spends a lot of his ski-time there. [09:30] It has great conditions and is a safe bet during any point in the season. [10:05] Come spring, Chris likes Telluride and other Colorado destinations. [11:40] Utah is great all season long (any resort or mountain location). [12:00] Utah has some of the best snow on the continent and it's north-facing. [12:15] Snowbird and Alta are almost always going to be winners at any point in the season. [14:00] Fat skis have allowed more skiers to tackle any type of terrain, so it's busier on more challenging runs, even though the skiers are less experienced. [16:34] Staying in Salt Lake in December is the cheapest ski trip you can do. [17:00] Skiing in Salt Lake is great because you don't run into a large amount of locals. [16:52] If you get a snow day, Alta and Snowbird will be packed. Solitude is a great alternative, even though the runs aren't as steep. [18:15] Resorts in California get storms that other places do not. They also have to deal with the effects of drought. [19:55] The pros and cons of the Epic Pass and the Icon Pass. [24:20] Crested Butte is in a remote area (the only game in town), so they can charge what they want. [26:20] How your location often affects which ski pass you should buy. [29:00] Winter Park changes and how they have improved the resort. [29:29] Copper Mountain vs. Vail and Beaver Creek. [29:45] Copper is one of the best Spring ski resorts. [31:00] If you only ski groomers, you're not going to get better. When you challenge yourself, you improve. [31:22] Nothing can teach you to ski better than huge bumps. Resources: Wagner Custom Skis Chris' Website ZRankings

On this episode, I speak with certified badass, Jake Hutchinson. He is the son of a Ski Patroller, a Marine, and an avalanche safety and survival course instructor. Jake trains search and rescue teams, as well as members of the Special Forces. On top of all that, he is the lead trainer at Salt Lake City's Gym Jones. Tune in to hear us talk about injury-proofing your body, the importance of self-assessment, and how the mountain can separate the wheat from the chaff. Topics: [03:20] Injury-proofing your body. [07:40] 50% of the injuries he has witnessed were a result of people being tired. [10:38] If you have a weak core, it doesn't matter what's going on with the rest of your body. [12:05] Jake forces himself to trail run several times per week, [12:25] Jake believes trail running is great training for skiers. [14:47] He is a huge proponent of cross-training. [21:55] The importance of exercising your hip flexors. [24:34] Learn to master kick-turns on easy terrain. [25:35] How to make sure your weight is distributed properly. [27:00] The importance of self-awareness and self-assessment when it comes to avoiding injury and learning new skills. [30:30] Ego and testosterone is a consistent problem on the mountain; it prevents people from being honest with themselves about their abilities. [33:55] Jake finds that the T-bar helps weed out the strong skiers from the weak. [34:35] Putting in high-speed lifts has contributed to people overestimating their abilities and leading to weaker skiers putting themselves in danger. [37:20] Pole plants help point you in the right direction and remain vital to form. Quotes: "When people start over-using their quads, because their hamstrings and glutes aren't balanced, that's where a lot of knee injuries end up." -Jake Hutchinson "Skiing has a reasonable risk factor, even on a corduroy groomer, beginner trail." -Jake Hutchinson "You really have to be able to...ruthlessly assess yourself and what state you're in...so that you don't get lulled into complacency…" -Jake Hutchinson Resources: Wagner Custom Skis Gym Jones Website American Avalanche Institute

Today, on this episode of Next Level Skiing, I had the opportunity to speak with Angel Collinson, a professional Freeskier. Angel explains how she was bred into skiing and originally started out with a different goal for her career. We talk about how visualization, meditation, and deep breathing have improved her performance and lifestyle; Angel explains why these methods of self-care are such an important part of the gig and explains how she benefits from the practices. We also discuss how her "feminine approach to fear" and her not-so-secret-mantra has made her one of the best in the world. Tune in to hear important insights from Angel and how to take your skiing to the next level. Topics: [02:10] Angel was bred into skiing by growing up at Snowbird Ski Resort. [02:51] Angel had lofty racing aspirations [05:15] Visualization is a technique that helps Angel manage fear. [09:52] Angel talks about the importance of self-care and being "resourced enough". [15:15] Deep breathing exercises and their benefits. [18:00] How Angel gets over nervousness prior to a race. [21:05] Why fear is a tool. [24:00] Angel explains why it's not bad to "back off". [27:01] The two pieces of advice that have resonated for Angel. [28:43] If you want more info, head to WagnerSkis.com. Quotes: "I'm sort of, like, an all or nothing person." -Angel Collinson "If you don't realize how stressed out you are or tired you are, sometimes you won't make as good decisions, because you don't realize where you're at." -Angel Collinson "I've never been afraid to [back off]." -Angel Collinson Resources: Wagner Custom Skis Angel's Website Angel on Twitter

Welcome to Next Level Skiing by Wagner Skis. Next Level Skiing is a podcast about skiing. Your skiing. We talk to the sport's luminaries and behind-the-scenes bosses about strategies and hacks for stepping your skiing up a notch. Sure, the key to getting better at skiing is to go skiing. A lot. If it was only that easy. This podcast will offer some shortcuts to becoming the skier you want to be, without having to quit your job and move to a ski town. You can subscribe where ever you get your podcasts by searching for "Next Level Skiing." Learn more at wagnerskis.com/nextlevel.