Husky Talk Podcast

Welcome to Husky Talk Podcast

A weekly behind the scenes look at the Iditarod and mushing for classrooms around the world.

Erin Montgomery, 2015 Iditarod Teacher on the Trail™ from Iowa and her students host this podcast, designed and created to introduce you to the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race and give you an essential behind the scenes look at the race. 

Weekly segments of the program include: Iditarod Trivia, Musher Mt. Rushmore, Most Valuable Dog

Join the the students for their podcasts each week.

Listen via SoundCloud here or click the play buttons under each guest name below.

 

Season 7

Season 7 Episode 8: Wally Robinson (2024 Most Improved Musher and Humanitarian Award)

In this episode we talk with this year’s Most Improved Musher and the Humanitarian award winner. Wally talks with us about being asked to run the Iditarod for a friend days before the Iditarod. He tells us what went into his training and gives us stories from the trail. Enjoy this episode with Wally Robinson.

 

Photo by Siri Raitto

Season 7 Episode 7: Josi Thyr (2024 Iditarod Rookie of the Year)

In this episode we talk with the 2024 Iditarod Rookie of the Year. Josi talks with us about what it takes to qualify for the Iditarod, what rookies have to do prior to the race, and the race itself. Enjoy this episode with Josi Thyr as she shares her stories from the trail.

 

 

 

Season 7 Episode 6: Dallas Seavey (2024 Iditarod Champion)

In this episode we had the honor of talking with the first and only 6-time Iditarod champion. Listen as he talks with us about the challenges he faced this season and how he overcame them. He shares some advice for young mushers. Dallas also gives us insight into his future in his career in mushing.

 

Season 7 Episode 5: Angie Taggart

Thanks for tuning into another episode of Husky Talk. We are less than one month away from the start of the Iditarod. Our guest on this episode is a 2-time finisher of the Iditarod and a school teacher in Alaska. Enjoy this episode with Angie Taggart.

 

 

Season 7 Episode 4: Emily Robinson

Our guest on this episode grew up in a dog mushing family and has been raising huskies since she was old enough to hold one. She manages her family’s kennel. She is a 2-time Jr. Iditarod champ and recently won the Knik 200 by edging out former Iditarod champ, Brent Sass, by one minute. Enjoy this episode with Emily Robinson.

 

 

Season 7 Episode 3: Aaron Burmeister

We are currently less than 50 days from the start. Our guest on this episode is an Iditarod veteran with 21 finishes. He has 8 top ten finishes with his best finish being runner up in 2021. He stepped away after the 2022 race and is back this year. Enjoy this episode with Aaron Burmeister.

 

 

Season 7 Episode 2: Katti Jo Deeter

Our guest on this episode ran her first Iditarod in 2022. As a matter of fact she made it all the way to Nome, but was not considered a finisher. She went back in 2023 and officially finished. This year, her husband, an Iditarod veteran, Jeff Deeter, will be running the Iditarod. Please enjoy this episode with Katie Jo Deeter.

 

Season 7 Episode 1: Shannon Noonan (Marketing and Communications Director)

We are back in another exciting season of Husky Talk. In our first episode of season 7 we talk with the marketing and communications director for the world famous Iditarod sled dog race. Please enjoy this episode with Shannon Noonan.

 

Season 6

Season 6 Episode 11: Liz Millman (Return Dog Coordinator)

Our guest on this episode is a veterinarian. During the Iditarod she is the return dog coordinator. She is going to talk to us all about the logistics of return dogs of the Iditarod.

 

 

Season 6 Episode 10: Ryan Redington (Iditarod 2023 Champion)

Our guest on this episode is an 8-time Iditarod veteran, grandson of the founder of the Iditarod, and the 2023 Iditarod champion. Please enjoy this episode with Ryan Redington.Our guest on this episode is an 8-time Iditarod veteran, grandson of the founder of the Iditarod, and the 2023 Iditarod champion. Please enjoy this episode with Ryan Redington.

 

 

 

Photo by Andy Romang

Season 6 Episode 9: Andy Pohl

Our guest today is familiar with the Iditarod in more than one way. He has been on the Iditarod trail on both bike and dog sled. This next weekend he will be competing in the Iditarod Trail Invitational 350 mile bike race. The following weekend his wife, Kristy Berington, will start the 1000 mile Iditarod dog sled race. Please enjoy this episode with Andy Pohl.
Follow Andy’s race here: itialaska.com/tracking

 

 

Season 6 Episode 8: Liz Failor

We are less than a month away from Iditarod 2023. Our guest today is involved in the Iditarod in more than one way. She was an Iditarod reporter for KTVA T.V. channel, she currently reports for Iditarod Insider, and her husband, Matthew Failor, is an Iditarod musher. Please enjoy this episode with Liz Failor.

Watch the podcast here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NjNWDoblqYc

 

 

Season 6 Episode 7: Martin Buser

We are here today with a legend in the sport of dog mushing. He holds the record for most consecutive Iditarod finishes with 37. He has completed the race 39 times with no scratches. He has 19 top ten finishes, 12 top five finishes, and was and Iditarod champion 4 times. Please enjoy this episode with Martin Buser.

Watch the podcast here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mcg3ZQmv1-o&t=177s

 

Season 6 Episode 6: Micheal Williams Jr. 

Our guest this week is a veteran who has competed in 7 Iditarods. His highest finish is 8th place when he also earned the Sportsmanship award. He is a 2nd generation musher from the Bethel area. Enjoy this episode with Michael Williams Jr.

 

 

Season 6 Episode 5: Bridgett Watkins

Our guest on this episode moved to Alaska at the age of 5. She was introduced to mid and long distance mushing by 2 of the best mushers of all time, her father and stepmother, Allen Moore and Ally Zirkle. She currently lives near Nome where she is an emergency room nurse. She was a rookie in last year’s Iditarod and was forced to scratch near White Mountain due to a violent storm. Enjoy this episode with Bridgett Watkins.

 
Season 6 Episode 4: Wes Erb

Our guest today has been involved with the Iditarod for over 15 years with the Iditarod Air Force. He is the chief pilot in McGrath, one of the Iditarod checkpoints and airport hub. He lives in Alaska and is a FedEx pilot when not volunteering for the Iditarod. Enjoy this episode with Wes Erb.
Watch the podcast here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=umvugkN2YII

 

 

Season 6 Episode 3: Dee Dee Jonrowe

Our guest on this episode has finished the Iditarod 33 times, has had 16 top ten finishes, finished the Mount Marathon 11 times, she is an Ironman finisher, a marathon runner, and a cancer survivor. She has retired from mushing and currently works with search and rescue dogs and reports for KTUU channel 2 news in Alaska. Enjoy this episode with Dee Dee Jonrowe.
Watch a video of the interview – www.youtube.com/watch?v=1qetQTdAE3Q

 

Season 6 Episode 2: Wade Marrs

Our guest on this episode was born in Alaska and is a 9-time Iditarod finisher. His best finish was 4th place in 2021 and 2016. He took a year off from the Iditarod and is excited to be back for the 2023 race. He also raises awareness for Turner Syndrome, a medical condition that affects his biggest fan, Ashley Perry, and also affects a classmate of ours here at Camanche Middle School. Enjoy this episode with Wade Marrs.

www.stumpjumpinkennel.com/

 

Season 6 Episode 1: Chas St. George

In our first episode of season 6 we sit down with the COO (Chief Operations Officer) for the Iditarod. On this episode we are going to recap last year’s race and talk about how Iditarod is preparing for the 2023 race. Our guest on this episode has been with the Iditarod for almost 14 years. He covered the Iditarod as a broadcast journalist years ago and is currently the Chief Operations Officer of the Iditarod. Enjoy this episode with Chas St. George.

Season 5

Season 5 Episode 20: Tekla Butcher-Monson

In our season 5 finale we talk with Tekla Butcher-Monson. She was born and raised in Alaska. She has been mushing since the age of 5. She has, twice, mushed 700 miles along the Iditarod trail in honor of her mother. In 2021 she ran a 200 mile race along the Denali highway and this past year she completed the 300 mile Copper Basin sled dog race. She is the daughter of 4-time Iditarod champion, Susan Butcher.

 

 

Season 5 Episode 19: Gerhardt Thiart 

Our guest on this episode was a rookie in this year’s Iditarod. He was born and raised in South Africa. He came to the United States in 2010 to learn more and see the world. After hearing about dog sledding he joined a kennel in Michigan. Sadly, he did not finish the Iditarod this year. He was less than 70 miles from the finish when he had to be rescued. Enjoy this episode with Gerhardt Thiart.

 

Season 5 Episode 18: Matthew Failor (Most Inspirational Musher 2022)

Our guest on this episode is a former Kuskokwim 300 champion, a 10-time Iditarod finisher, and proud owner of Alaskan Husky Adventures, home of the 17th dog. He was voted as Most Inspirational Musher in the 2022 Iditarod by his peers. Enjoy this episode with Matthew Failor.

We are now on YouTube. Watch the episode below.

 

 

Season 5 Episode 17: Jim Deprez (2021/2022 Iditarod Teacher on the Trail)

On this episode of Husky Talk, our guest waited two years to get out on the Iditarod trail. He was selected as the Iditarod Teacher on the Trail for 2021. Due to Covid restrictions, he was unable to travel on the trail last year. He was able to continue as teacher on the trail in 2022. It was a struggle to get out on the trail for him, but he finally made it. Enjoy this episode with the 2021 and 2022 Iditarod Teacher on the Trail, Jim Deprez.

 

Season 5 Episode 16: Brent Sass (Iditarod Champion)

Our guest on this episode is the champion of the 50th Iditarod Sled Dog Race. He is also one of only six people to win both the Iditarod and the Yukon Quest sled dog races. Please enjoy this episode with Brent Sass.

 

 

 

Season 5 Episode 15: Pam Flowers

Our guest on this episode has an extensive resume. She has completed the Iditarod sled dog race, completed several expeditions with her dog team including multiple North Pole trips, a trip across the Arctic, and she has completed the Appalachian trail. She has also written several books. Enjoy this episode with Pam Flowers.
www.pamflowers.com/

 

 

Season 5 Episode 14: Bridgett Watkins

Our guest on this episode moved to Alaska at the age of 5 and got her first sled dog. She competed in sprint mushing throughout her childhood. Her father and stepmother are some of the greatest mushers of all time, Allen Moore and Aliy Zirkle. It was them who introduced her to long distance mushing. She’s an ER nurse and lives in Fairbanks with her husband and 2 sons. Please enjoy this episode with Bridgett Watkins.

https://kennelonahill.us/

 

Season 5 Episode 13: Angie Taggart

Our guest on this episode has been teaching for 19 years. She took some time off from teaching and ran the Iditarod twice in 2011 and 2013. Enjoy this episode with Angie Taggart.

 

 

Season 5 Episode 12: Anna and Kristy Berington 

We are less than a month away from the start of the 50th Iditarod. On this episode we have identical twins from Knik, Alaska. They love dogs, running, and adventure. They are both veterans of the Iditarod. Enjoy this episode with Anna and Kristy Berington.

 

 

Season 5 Episode 11: Dick Mackey

Our guest on this episode is one of the original organizers of the Iditarod. He has won the famous race in 1983. He also has one of the most dramatic finishes in race history, beating Rick Swenson by the nose of a dog in 1978. Please enjoy this episode with Dick Mackey.

 

 

Season 5 Episode 10: Ryan Redington

Our guest on this episode continues to carry on the family legacy of running sled dogs. His grandfather is known as the “Father of the Iditarod,” as he co-founded the race. He is a 2-time champion of the Kobuk 440 and the John Beargrease sled dog race. Please consider heading over to his website and ordering a shirt to support his dog, Wildfire, who was injured in a recent accident. We will put the website in the show notes. Enjoy this episode with Ryan Redington.
redington-mushing.creator-spring.com/

 

Season 5 Episode 9: Pete Ripmaster

Our guest on this episode is a motivational speaker and a world-class adventurer. He has background knowledge of the Iditarod trail both through dogs and on foot. He was the 2018 Iditarod Trail Invitational champion. Please enjoy this episode with Pete Ripmaster.

 

 

Season 5 Episode 8: Dallas Seavey

Our guest on this episode is a 5-time Iditarod champion. He was the youngest person to ever finish the Iditarod as well as the youngest Iditarod champion. He and his father became the only father/son duel to place 1st and 2nd place in the Iditrarod. Besides his 5 championships, he has 10 top ten finishes. Please enjoy this episode with the defending Iditarod champion, Dallas Seavey.

 

Season 5 Episode 7: Libby Riddles

Our guest on this episode was born in Madison, Wisconsin and moved to Alaska before she turned 17. She saw a sprint dog race and fell in love with mushing.
In 1985 she won the Leonard Seppala Humanitarian award, she was named Sportswoman of the year, she appeared in Sports Illustrated, and was the first woman to win the Iditarod. Enjoy this episode with Libby Riddles.

 

Season 5 Episode 6: Jane Holmes

Our guest on this episode is the 2008 Iditarod Teacher on the Trail. The Last Frontier captured her as she stood in the village of Nikolai, where she decided that one day she would teach in rural Alaska. She taught in Togiak, Alaska for 2 years. She recently began working for the Iditarod as the Director of Education. Enjoy this episode with Jane Holmes.

 

 

Season 5 Episode 5: Amanda Otto

This episode’s guest will be a rookie in the 50th running of the Iditarod. She is being mentored by the famous, Jeff King, at Husky Homestead in Denali, Alaska. She is from Idaho and grew up around dogs. Enjoy this episode with Amanda Otto.
huskyhomestead.com/

 

Season 5 Episode 4: KattiJo Deeter

Our guest today will be a rookie in the 50th running of the Iditarod. After working a summer job in Alaska, she met her husband, Iditarod musher, Jeff Deeter. We are excited for you to hear her journey to the Iditarod. Enjoy this episode with KattiJo Deeter.
blacksprucedogsledding.com/meet-the-people/

 

Season 5 Episode 3: Jeff Schultz

Our guest this week has been photographing the Iditarod for almost 40 years. He has seen the race change in many ways. He has met and photographed many icons of the Iditarod. Please enjoy this episode with Jeff Schultz.
www.schultzphoto.com/iditarod/

 

Season 5 Episode 2: Jon Van Zyle

Our guest on this episode has finished the Iditarod twice and has been the official artist of the Iditarod since 1979. He will be sharing some great stories with us about the Iditarod. Enjoy this episode with Jon Van Zyle.
Jon Van Zyle’s website – www.jonvanzyle-ak.com/

 

Season 5 Episode 1: Katie Mangelsdorf

Welcome to our 5th season. This year is the 50th anniversary of the Iditarod and we are going to be having guests share stories of the Iditarod from the last 50 years. Our guest today will start our season off with the story of how the Iditarod began. Enjoy this episode with Katie Mangelsdorf.

Katie’s book www.amazon.com/Champion-Alaskan-…rod/dp/1594332452

In Special Memory of Hobo Jim

Season 2 Episode 1: James Varso (Hobo Jim)

We had the privilege to interview Hobo Jim back in 2018 about his role with the Iditarod. We talked with him about his inspirations, his music, and life. He also sang us a line from his famous song, The Iditarod Trail Song. Please share this podcast to help remember his legacy.

Season 4

Season 4 Episode 13: Cindy Abbott

This is our last episode of this season. We just want to give a huge shout out to you all for persevering through this extremely challenging year. This episode we will be talking about an Iditarod finisher who has persevered through quite a bit in her life. She also has received the Red Lantern award both in 2015 and 2017, which is a symbol of perseverance. Please enjoy this episode with Cindy Abbott.

 

Season 4 Episode 12: Karen Ramstead

On this episode we talk with a retired musher that has run the Iditarod several times. When she was running sled dogs she ran with Siberian Huskies. She is still involved with the Iditarod as she often is a race judge. She also is still involved with dogs and works with border collies herding sheep. Please enjoy this episode with Karen Ramstead.

 

Season 4 Episode 11: Brent Sass

Our guest on this episode has been living in Alaska for over 20 years. He is a three-time Yukon Quest champion and an Iditarod veteran. His highest finish in the Iditarod is 4th place. Enjoy this episode with Brent Sass.

 

 

Season 4 Episode 10: Matthew Failor

We are excited to talk with this faithful guest of Husky Talk. He was born and raised in Ohio and moved to Alaska in 2008 to train dogs. Check out his other episodes of Husky Talk. Enjoy this episode with Matthew Failor.

 

 

Season 4 Episode 9: Dakota Schlosser

This episode’s guest has been racing sled dogs for 17 years. He competed in the Jr. Iditarod in 2014 and 2015, receiving 4th place finishes and Rookie of the Year. His dream has been to run the Iditarod since he was 10 years old. That dream will come true this year in his rookie Iditarod. Enjoy this episode of Dakota Schlosser.

 

 

Season 4 Episode 8: Will Troshynski

On this episode we talk with a guest who has been mushing since he was 15 years old. He ran the Jr. Iditarod while training and being mentored by Iditarod champion, Martin Buser. He is racing to show that you can do big things while coping with mental health issues. Enjoy this episode with Will Troshynski.

 

 

Season 4 Episode 7: Chas St. George

Our guest on this episode is the Chief Operations Officer for the Iditarod Sled Dog Race. He also has recently been working with the Iditarod Education Department, which he is very excited about. On this episode we talk with him about Iditarod rookies and the mandatory rookie meeting. Please have a listen to our episode with Chas St. George.

 

 

Season 4 Episode 6: Ryan Redington

Today our guest talks with us about Alaskan huskies. His family has been running Alaskan huskies for generations, in fact, his grandfather founded the Iditarod. He is also a 6-time finisher of the Iditarod. Please join us as we talk with Ryan Redington.

Use the interactive hyperslide activity below after you listen to the Lisbet Norris and Ryan Redington podcasts.

Siberians vs. Alaskans Hyperslide (Google Slides)

Siberians vs. Alaskans Hyperslide (Poweroint)

 

 

Season 4 Episode 5: Lisbet Norris

In this episode of Husky Talk we are trying to debunk the myth that Siberian huskies are too slow to run the Iditarod. Join us as Lisbet Norris talks to us about Siberian huskies. Lisbet has finished the Iditarod 3 times with her team of Siberians. She currently leads sled dog tours and expeditions in Alaska.

Use the interactive hyperslide activity below after you listen to the Lisbet Norris and Ryan Redington podcasts.

Siberians vs. Alaskans Hyperslide (Google Slides)

 

Season 4 Episode 4: Martin Buser

He is a 4-time Iditarod Champion.He was part of the Elim 11.
He and his dogs were part of the movie Togo.
He is an all-around amazing guy. 
Tune in to listen to Martin Buser share some experiences on the trail.

 

Season 4 Episode 3: Laura Neese

A group of 11 mushers, traveling together, came across poor trail conditions and bad weather. All 11 mushers head back to the checkpoint of Elim and waited out the conditions for a couple of days. One of those mushers is Laura Neese. Listen to this episode as she talks to us about her experience with the Elim 11.

Get your students ready for our Laura Neese podcast by having them complete the Elim 11 Hyperslide activity. Students will be able to explore articles and apply their knowledge in fun activities.

Elim 11 Hyperslide (Google Slides)

Elim 11 (Powerpoint)

 

 

 

 

Season 4 Episode 2: Sean Underwood 

Last year our guest was a handler for Iditarod icon, Jeff King. His goal was to run the Iditarod in2021. With just days before the start of the 2020 Iditarod, King suffered an illness that would sideline him for the race. Sean Underwood got the call to “put his big boy pants on.” He would be running in place of Jeff King. Listen to his awesome story of going from handler to Iditarod musher in days.

Iditarod Dog Handler Hyperslide Activity

Get your students ready for our Sean Underwood podcast by having them complete the Iditarod Dog Handlers Hyperslide activity. Students will be able to explore an article and video about dog handlers, as well as learn about Sean.

 

Season 4 Episode 1: Thomas Waerner 

Join us as we talk with the 2020 Iditarod Champion. He talks with us about winning the 2020 race as well as the changes he saw in the race as Covid spread through the world. We also find out about his extra 2-month stay in Alaska as Covid caused many travel restrictions.

Iditarod Champions Hyperslide Activity

 

Season 3


Husky Talk Plus – March 13 Edition :Special Guest Chas St. George 

In today’s episode we talk about our current leaderboard, updates on scratches, and a story about one of our back of the packers. Our Iditarod expert talks to us about returned dogs, scratches, and how the coronavirus is affecting the Iditarod. Don’t forget to email us your answer to the Iditarod Question of the Day.

 

Husky Talk Plus – March 11 Edition: Special Guest Chas St. George

Today’s edition of Husky Talk Plus we give you special leaderboard updates as well as checkpoint check-ins. Our expert talks to us about the rookies and the weather conditions on the trail. Don’t forget to listen for the question of the day.

 

Husky Talk Plus – March 9 Edition: Special Guest Chas St. George

During the Iditarod we will be coming to you daily with updates on the race. Tune in to listen to leaderboard updates, special guest Iditarod experts, Iditarod Questions of the Day, and more.

 

Season 3 Episode 28: Mark Nordman

Mark Nordman is the race director and race marshal for the Iditarod. He has been involved with the Iditarod since 1983. In this episode he talks to us all about the Iditarod and his responsibilities during the race. Join us and find out more about Mark Nordman and the Iditarod.

 
 
Season 3 Episode 27: Julia Cross

Meet Julia Cross. Julia is racing the Jr. Iditarod for the first time this year. She is no stranger to sled dog races as she has finished the Jr. Beargrease. Julia has trained with some legendary mushers; Dan Seavey and Ryan Redington. Join us and find out more about Julia Cross.
 
 

Season 3 Episode 26: Monica Zappa

She lives off grid on the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska with her partner, Tim Osmar. She is an Iditarod veteran. She took a year off last year to travel across the state with dog team with Tim. She is back for the Iditarod this year. Join us for this episode and meet Monica Zappa.

 

Season 3 Episode 25: Robert Forto

Do you know the story of the Serum Run? Robert Forto and a group of others will be departing this weekend on an expedition that will follow the original trail that delivered the serum to the children of Nome. Join us on this episode to learn all about this expedition and how you can follow their journey.

 

 

Season 3 Episode 24: Sean Underwood

Join us as we talk about mushing from a different perspective. Many mushers have dog handlers that work for them at their kennel. Our guest this week is a handler for 4-time Iditarod champion, Jeff King. He recently finished the Yukon Quest 300 and the last of his Iditarod qualifiers in hopes of racing the Iditarod in 2021. Meet Sean Underwood.

 

 

Season 3 Episode 23: Riley Dyche

This week’s guest is a rookie to the Iditarod this year, but is no rookie to the 1000-mile distance as he has finished the Yukon Quest. He talks with us about how he won the sportsmanship award in the Yukon Quest in 2018 and his experience out on that trail. He talks with us about the mandatory rookie meeting he had to attend in December for the Iditarod. Join us and meet Riley Dyche.

 

Season 3 Episode 22: Dallas Seavey

Join us as we talk with 4-time champion of the Iditarod, Dallas Seavey. He talks with us about growing up and being around dogs, the importance of dog care, and how his family has shaped him. We learn about some of his Iditarod championships. Recently, he has raced in Europe’s longest sled dog race, Finnmarkslopet, and he tells us the logistics of getting to this dog race.

 

 

Season 3 Episode 21: Kelly Villar 2020 Iditarod Teacher on the Trail

Our guest this week is the 2020 Iditarod Teacher on the Trail. She talks with us about her role as the official Iditarod Teacher on the Trail. Join us to learn more about this program and what Kelly will be doing out on the trail this year.

 

 

 

Season 3 Episode 20: Marti Steury from the Yukon Quest

Marti Steury is the executive director of the Yukon Quest. She talks to us about the Yukon Quest, the other 1000 mile sled dog race in North America. Join us and learn more about the Yukon Quest.

Follow the Yukon Quest here: www.yukonquest.com/

Email us with comments, questions, or guest ideas here: huskytalk1@gmail.com

 

Season 3 Episode 19: Quince Mountain 

He is a rookie in this year’s Iditarod. He was on Naked and Afraid. He’s a writer. He and his wife, Blair, have a huge following on Twitter. Join us as Quince talks with us about mushing and his personal life. You don’t want to miss this episode.

Follow Quince on Twitter –  https://twitter.com/QuinceMountain?s=20

 

 

Season 3 Episode 18: Katie Mangelsdorf 

Do you know why the Iditarod started? Most people think it has to do with the Serum Run, this is not true. Listen as Katie Mangelsdorf tells us the story of the real reason the Iditarod got its start. She also shares stories about Joe Redington, Sr. from her book Champion of Alaskan Huskies.
Buy Katie’s book here: www.amazon.com/Champion-Alaskan-…rod/dp/1594332452

 

 

Season 3 Episode 17: Monica Hendrickson (John Beargrease Marathon)

The John Beargrease is one of the premier sled dog races in North America. The race was established in 1980 and many world class mushers have competed in the race. The Beargrease is an Iditarod qualifying race. Join us for this episode as Monica Hendrickson talks to us about the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon.

Follow the race here: https://beargrease.com/ 

 

Season 3 Episode 16: Scott Kummer (Human Powered Iditarod)

Did you know that there is another race along the Iditarod Trail? One week before the dogs take off, there is a human powered event. We talked with one of the racers that will do the event on foot. He is an ultrarunner and hosts his own podcast, Ten Junk Miles. Find out more about Scott Kummer in this episode of Husky Talk.

 

 

Season 3 Episode 15: Seth Barnes

Originally from Alabama, Seth came to Alaska to run dogs. He is a veteran of both the Yukon Quest and Iditarod. He talks with us about what it was like to lose a dog on the trail. Please enjoy this episode with Seth Barnes.

 

 

 

Season 3 Episode 14: Lev Shvarts

Lev is a proud U.S. citizen. He talks with us about his background, life, and running dogs.

 
 
 

 

Season 3 Episode 13: Ryan Anderson

Ryan has been mushing since the age of 10. He is a 3-time champion of the John Beargrease. He talks to us about how he got involved in mushing and the many races he has competed in.

 

 

 

Season 3 Episode 12: Brian Presley (Leonard Seppala in The Great Alaskan Race) 

Have you seen the new movie The Great Alaskan Race yet? Brian Presley is the writer, producer, director, and main actor in the movie. He talks to us about what got him into acting, what it was like playing Leonard Seppala, and what is was like working with dogs.

 

 

Season 3 Episode 11: Blake Freking 

This week’s episode features the 2019 John Beargrease champion. He has completed the Beargrease, Iditarod, and Yukon Question, among many other races. Check out this episode with owner of Manitou Crossing Kennels, Blake Freking.

 

 

Season 3 Episode 10: Deke Naaktgeboren

From our home state of Iowa, listen to our interview with Deke as he tells us about how he got into mushing. He also talks to us about the many races he has finished and how he plans to do the Yukon Quest and Iditarod this season.

 

 

Season 3 Episode 9: Charley Bejna

November is Diabetes Awareness Month. Charley Bejna is a Type 1 diabetic who has completed the Iditarod several times. This episode we talk with Charley about how he manages he diabetes while out on the trail.

 

 

 

Season 3 Episode 8: Jessie Royer 

Last year she finished 3rd in the Iditarod. She has placed in the top ten six times in her career. Jessie Royer talks with us about her 3rd place finish last year.

 

 

 

Season 3 Episode 7: Meredith Mapes

We talk with Meredith Mapes this week about how she has both volunteered for the Iditarod as well as raced in the event. This year she is considered a veteran of the race. Listen to Meredith talk with us about her goals for this year.

 

 

Season 3 Episode 6: Karin Hendrickson

After being involved in an accident while out training her dogs, she is back for the 2020 Iditarod. Listen to Karin talk to us about what it was like on the road to recovery.

 

 

 

Season 3 Episode 5: Greg Heister 

After recently returning from the Amazon to film an episode of Seasons on the Fly, Greg Heister sits down and talks with us. He talks; the Amazon, Seasons on the Fly, announcing basketball, the Iditarod and the changes he has see. Listen to “the voice” of the Iditarod on this week’s episode of Husky Talk.

 

 

Season 3 Episode 4: Laura Neese

She loves to fish and make maple syrup. She has placed 3rd in the Yukon Quest. This year she is back for the Iditarod. Enjoy this episode with Laura Neese of Nature’s Kennel.

 

 

 

Season 3 Episode 3: Louise Russell (dogbooties.com)

Did you ever wonder who makes all those booties you see the sled dogs wearing? How about the leggings and harnesses? Join us as we talk with dogbooties.com owner, Louise Russell.

 
 
 

 

Season 3 Episode 2: Rob Urbach (CEO of Iditarod)

This week we have a special guest joining us to talk to us about his new role as CEO of the Iditarod.

 
 
 

 

Season 3 Episode 1: Mille Porsild 

Welcome back to Season 3 of Husky Talk. This week we have a great conversation with an experience musher that will be running her first Iditarod this year. Join us and listen to her talk about different expeditions she has done and how she is excited about the Iditarod.

 

 

 

Season 2


Season 2 Episode 24: Victoria Hardwick (Red Lantern Winner)

A native of Washington state, she now resides in Bethel, Alaska. She is the winner of the 2019 Iditarod Red Lantern award. Join us in an interview with Victoria.

 

 

 

Season 2 Episode 23: Stories with Jeff King

Join us for a special episode with Jeff King. Jeff is an amazing story teller and this episode we hear some fantastic stories told by Jeff, himself.

 

 

 

Season 2 Episode 22: Dick Mackey

Find out what it was like to help get the Iditarod started. Learn about the closest finish in Iditarod history, the 1978 Iditarod. He tells us how the Iditarod has changed through the years. Also, many more amazing stories told by Iditarod legend, Dick Mackey.

 

 

Season 2 Episode 21: Matt Hall

He placed 6th this year in the Iditarod. He is a former Yukon Quest champion. He lives a subsistent lifestyle. He lives on a glacier in the summer. Enjoy this week’s episode with Matt Hall.

 

 

 

Season 2 Episode 20: Linwood Fiedler

After part of his sled broke, he lost his team out on the trail this year. Listen to his story and other stories about his journey to finishing 12th place in this year’s Iditarod. He also talks to us about spending his summers on a glacier and giving helicopter and dog tours.

 

 

Season 2 Episode 19: Aaron Peck (Herbie Nayokpuk Award)

He was 23rd in this year’s Iditarod, worked with Martin Buser, and won the Herbie Nayokpuk award. Listen to this week’s episode with Aaron Peck.

 

 

 

Season 2 Episode 18: Ed Hopkins (Rookie of the Year)

This year’s Iditarod Rookie of the Year talks with us about his feelings on earning the award. He also talks with us about the journey along the trail this year and how finishing several Yukon Quest races helped him not feel like a true rookie.

 

 

 

Season 2 Episode 17: Brent Sass

Find out about Brent’s championship run on the Yukon Quest this year. Listen to him talk about training, answer some Iditarod trivia, and go through our Lightening Round.

 

 

 

Season 2 Episode 16: Joanne Potts

Find out how Joanne got involved in the Iditarod and how things have changed over the many years she has been involved. You are going to love listening to this “Superwoman” of the Iditarod.

 

 

 

Season 2 Episode 15: Iditarider Program with Diane Johnson and Nancy Livingston

Have you ever wanted to take a ride in a sled with an Iditarod musher? You have that opportunity with the Iditarider program. Listen as Diane Johnson talks about the program and Nancy Livingston, long time Iditarider, shares her experiences.

 

 

 

Season 2 Episode 14: Matthew Failor 

Join us as we talk with Matthew Failor. He recently won the Kuskokwim 300. Last year he was the Most Improved musher in the Iditarod and he will compete again this year.

 

 

 

Season 2 Episode 13: Ryan Redington

Join us as we talk family, Iditarod, and John Beargrease with Ryan Redington. Ryan talks with us about what an honor it is to run the race his grandfather founded. You will also find out why he lives in Alaska, but comes to Wisconsin to train.

 

 

 

Season 2 Episode 12: Lance Mackey (4-time Iditarod Champion)

Listen to four-time Iditarod and Yukon Quest champion, Lance Mackey, talk with us about getting back into the Iditarod this year. He also talks with us about how having cancer affected his racing.

 

 

 

Season 2 Episode 11: Jaimee High (High’s Adventure Gear and Kennel)

In this episode we talk with Jaimee High, owner of High’s Adventure Gear and Kennel. She talks with us about the different gear mushers wear on the trail to keep warm. Jaimee also designs and makes gear and talks with us about her business.

 

 

 

Season 2 Episode 10: Julie Carpenter (Denali National Park)

Learn about how Denali National Park uses sled dogs to protect and preserve the environment. Listen to Julie talk about the Denali Kennels.

 

 

 

Season 2 Episode 9: Beat Jegerlehner (Iditarod Trail Invitational finisher)

This week’s episode will give you the perspective of the Iditarod trail from someone who has completed the 1000 mile trail on foot.

 

 

 

 

Season 2 Episode 8: Joe Pendergrass (Iditarod Air Force Pilot)

Join us for this episode as we talk with Iditarod Air Force pilot, Joe Pendergrass. Find out how volunteers, dogs, and supplies travel along the trail.

 

 

 

Season 2 Episode 7: Emily Maxwell

Our guest this week is from Iowa City, Iowa. She was a rookie in the Iditarod last season and is training to run again this year. Sit back and enjoy an interview with Emily Maxwell.

 

 

 

Season 2 Episode 6: Wade Marrs

In this week’s episode we talk with a young up and coming musher from Willow, Alaska. Join us and listen to our interview with Wade Marrs.

 

 

 

Season 2 Episode 5: Cindy Abbott

In this week’s episode we talk with Cindy Abbott about her adventurous life; including climbing Mt. Everest and racing in the Iditarod.

 

 

 

Season 2 Episode 4: Susan Smith and students of Takotna

This week we take you on a journey to Takotna, Alaska and chat with Susan Smith and some of her students.

 

 

 

 

Season 2 Episode 3: Jason Campeau

Kick back, relax, and listen to Iditarod musher Jason Campeau. Jason talks with us about his accident he encountered on last year’s Yukon Quest.

 

 

 

 

Season 2 Episode 2: Pete Ripmaster (Iditarod Trail Invitational Champion)

Join us as we talk with adventure sports athlete, Pete Ripmaster. Pete talks with us about his recent win at the Iditarod Trail Invitational, the human powered Iditarod.

 

 

 

 

Season 2 Episode 1: James Varsos (Hobo Jim)

Enjoy an interview with James Varsos, better known as Hobo Jim. Listen as he talks to us about his inspirations and sings a line from his famous song, The Iditarod Trail Song.

 

 

Season 1


Episode 33: Matthew Failor (Most Improved Musher)

Listen to Matthew Failor talk with us about his 2018 Iditarod experience and his Most Improved Musher award.

 

 

 

 

Episode 32: Brian Hickox, 2019 Iditarod Teacher on the Trail

This week’s episode will introduce you to the 2019 Iditarod Teacher on the Trail, Brian Hickox.

 

 

 

 

Episode 31: Larry Dougherty (Post Race)

Join us as we talk with Larry Dougherty about his 2018 Iditarod experience. Larry entered the Iditarod at the last minute to race Jason Campeau’s dogs after he suffered a concussion in the Yukon Quest.

 

 

 

Episode 30: Debbie Smykalski (Volunteer Cook)

In this episode we talk with a volunteer who cooks food out on the Iditarod trail. Find out what the volunteers eat and how the food gets out on the trail.

 

 

 

Episode 29: Casey Grove (Host of Iditapod Podcast)

Join us in the second half of our season as we talk with the host of the podcast, Iditapod, Casey Grove.

 

 

 

 

Episode 28: Hannah Mahoney (Jr. Iditarod)

Enjoy an episode with 2017 Jr. Iditarod musher, Hannah Mahoney, as she talks with us about her journey to the Jr. Iditarod.

 

 

 

 

Episode 27: Stu Nelson (Chief Veterinarian)

Find out how well the dogs of the Iditarod are treated by listening to Stu Nelson, chief veterinarian of the Iditarod.

 

 

 

Episode 26: Terrie Hanke (Eye on the Trail)

Sit back and listen to Terrie tell some amazing stories of her time out on the trail. She also talks with us about how you can read more of her stories on Eye on the Trail, a blog on the Iditarod website. (Photo Credit: Jeff Schultz)

 

 

 

Episode 25: Spencer Pape talks about “Trailbreakers”

Do you ever wonder how the Iditarod trail gets groomed? Listen to this episode as one of the “trailbreakers” talk with us about prepping the Iditarod trail for the dogs and mushers.

 

 

 

Episode 24: Jill Homer

In this episode we talk about different modes of transportation across the Iditarod Trail, biking and running. We talk with the fastest female to bike the Iditarod Trail, Jill Homer. Listen as she talks with us about the Iditarod Trail Invitational.

 

 

 

Episode 23: Jeff King

Episode #23 features 4-time Iditarod champion and Yukon Quest champion, Jeff King. Jeff takes time to talk with us about his many years racing sled dogs.

 

 

 

Episode 22: Tim Muto Talks Drop Bags

Mushers on the Iditarod are allowed to send out drop bags to checkpoints. On this episode, Tim Muto talks to us about what drop bags are, what he will put in his, and how to get the bags ready to be sent out along the trail.

 

 

Episode 21: Anna and Kristy Berington

In episode 21 we talk with twin sisters, Anna and Kristy Berington. They talk with us about the importance of training and being prepared to run 1000 miles with their dogs.

 

 

 

Episode 20: Linda Fenton

In our 20th episode we talk with the 2013 Iditarod Teacher on the Trail. Listen as she tells us about her experience as the Teacher on the Trail and how she uses the Iditarod as a tool in her classroom.

 

 

 

 

Episode 19: Libby Riddles

This week’s special guest was the first woman to win the The Last Great Race, the Iditarod. Listen as she talks about that special race in 1985. She also talks with us about being a positive female role model for young girls and boys. Finally, she shares her choices for our Musher Mount Rushmore, an all dog memorial.

 

 

 

 

 

Episode 18: Heidi Sloan

This week’s episode features the 2018 Iditarod Teacher on the Trail. Listen as she talks with us about her upcoming adventure as the 20th Iditarod Teacher on the Trail.

 

 

 

Episode 17: Finney (Andrea Aufder Heyde)

Are you interested in learning more about the Iditarod Teacher on the Trail program? This is the episode for you. Join us as we talk with Andrea “Finney” Aufder Heyde on this episode of Husky Talk. Finney was the first ever Iditarod Teacher on the Trail. Listen as she talks with us about the program and her experience on the trail.

 

 

Episode 16: Jeff Schultz

This week we interview the “Official Photographer” of the Iditarod, Jeff Schultz. Jeff has been taking pictures for the Iditarod for 38 years. He talks with us about what got him interested in photography and what it is like taking pictures out on the trail.

 

 

 

Episode 15: Ed Stielstra and Laura Neese

Listen to our interview with Ed Stielstra and Laura Neese of Nature’s Kennel in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. We talk with them about their partnership at Nature’s Kennel, advantages to living in the U.P., being alone on the trail, and much more. Join us for a talk with Ed and Laura.

 

 

 

Episode 14: Jason Campeau

Are you a hard worker? Enjoy this episode of Husky Talk as we interview Jason Campeau and listen to his philosophy of hard work. Jason was the first Canadian to complete the Yukon Quest and Iditarod in the same year.

 

 

 

 

 

Episode 13: Matthew Failor

Sit back and listen to Matthew Failor talk Iditarod with us. He shares how Boy Scouts has impacted his life, why he brushes his teeth before Iditarod, eating pizza on the trail, and much more.

 

 

 

Special Episode: The Rookie Meeting with Diane Johnson

Welcome to a special episode of Husky Talk. This episode we talk with the director of the education program for the Iditarod, Diane Johnson. Listen as she talks about the Iditarod Rookie Meeting.

 

 

 

 

Episode 12: Jon Van Zyle

Relax and listen to Jon Van Zyle talk about how the Iditarod has changed over the years. He also talks with us about his work as the official artist of the Iditarod.

 

 

 

 

Episode 11: Karen Ramstead

This week we talk with Karen Ramstead, Iditarod veteran and race judge. Listen as she talks with us about what an Iditarod race judge does on the trail and some stories from when she ran the Iditarod.

 

 

 

 

Episode 10: Al and Tanjala Eischens

This week we have a conversation with long time musher and Iditarod veteran, Al Eischens and his wife, Tanjala. Listen as they talk with us about how they work together in preparing each year for the Iditarod.

 

 

 

Episode 9: Larry Dougherty

Join us as we talk with avid mountain climber and Iditarod finisher Larry Daugherty. Listen as he talks about his attempt to climb the Seven Summits and his experience out on the Iditarod trail.

 

 

 

 

Episode 8: Greg Heister

Join us as we speak with the executive producer of the Iditarod Insider, and the “voice” of the Iditarod documentaries, Greg Heister.

 

 

 

Episode 7: Becca Moore

Join us as we talk with Becca Moore. Listen as she shares how the Iditarod affects her family.

 

 

 

 

 

Episode 6: Meredith Mapes

Join us as we talk with Iditarod rookie, Meredith Mapes. Listen as she tells us about racing the Jr. Iditarod and the qualifications to run the Iditarod.

 

 

 

 

Episode 5: Maureen Chrysler

Sit down with us as we talk with Maureen Chrysler. Maureen is a long time volunteer with the Iditarod. Listen as she talks with us about drug testing the dogs for the Iditarod “P” Team.

 

 

 

Episode 4: Charley Bejna

Join us as we talk to Charley Bejna live in our studio. Charley speaks about who inspired him to run dogs. He also speaks firsthand about the challenges of having Type I diabetes and being a musher.

 

 

 

Episode 3: Martin Buser

Join us in episode #3 as we talk with Martin Buser about how positivity plays a role in his dog training, his memories of running the Iditarod with his son, and becoming a United States citizen under the “Burled Arch” in Nome.

 
 
 
Episode 2:  Aliy Zirkle

Episode 2 of Husky Talk features an Iditarod veteran who has finished The Great Race 17 times and has finished in the top 5, five times; Aliy Zirkle. Listen as Aliy shares with us how she trains her dogs, her funniest Iditarod memory, and her goal of winning the Iditarod with a happy, healthy dog team.

 

 

 

Pilot Episode: Danny Seavey

Danny is a 3rd generation musher who first rode on a dog sled when he was 6 months old.  As a child, he started learning about Iditarod and eventually entered races.  Danny is an Iditarod Veteran, the son of Iditarod Champion Mitch Seavey, the brother of Champion Dallas Seavey, and the grandson of an Iditarod racer, Dan Seavey.  Mushing plays an important role in Danny’s family life.