Following Waters

In this episode of Following Waters, Brett sits down with Erik Amason to explore a life shaped by water, discipline, and an unrelenting pull toward risk.Erik grew up paddling on the Potomac River, where his early relationship with whitewater set the tone for what would become a lifelong pursuit of challenge. He devoted years to slalom kayaking, chasing the Olympic dream and committing fully to the process—even when it ultimately meant not making the team. That experience, defined as much by effort as outcome, became a foundation rather than an ending.From there, Erik turned toward a second major calling: serving as a Navy SEAL. He spent nine years in the Teams, including combat deployments, and talks candidly about what that chapter demanded of him—physically, mentally, and relationally. After leaving the military, Erik found his way back to the water, not as an escape, but as a continuation of the same internal drive that has shaped his life since childhood.Today, Erik is deeply engaged in cutting-edge whitewater paddling, consistently pushing into consequential terrain and big drops. He reflects on near-death experiences, including incidents in places like the Royal Gorge, and the difficult conversations those moments have required—especially with his wife. Throughout the conversation, Erik wrestles openly with what it means to carry a persistent desire for risk, even as life, family, and perspective evolve.This episode is an honest exploration of devotion, identity, and the through-line of challenge—how the same impulse can shape an athlete, a soldier, a partner, and a paddler across very different chapters of a life.@amasonerik - Instagram HandleMentioned in this episode:JointheACAJointheACA

In this episode of Following Waters, host Brett Mayer sits down with Marc Hunt, a true keystone figure in the southeastern paddling community, to explore a life shaped by rivers, relationships, and a deep commitment to community well-being—on and off the water.Marc’s story is not one of chasing a predetermined path, but of staying open—listening closely when passion appeared, and having the courage to follow it. From his early years on the water to co-founding Sunburst Adventures, Marc reflects on how business, advocacy, family, and river stewardship became deeply intertwined over the course of his life.Rather than separating work from passion, Marc allowed them to inform one another. The result is a career—and a community legacy—built on care, responsibility, and long-term thinking. In this conversation, we trace how those values took shape, how they were tested, and why they continue to matter today.In this episode, we explore:Marc’s early experiences on the water and how they shaped his sense of purposeThe founding of Sunburst Adventures and the complexities of building a values-driven river businessHow advocacy, family life, and professional responsibility intersect in meaningful waysWhat it means to truly “follow your heart” without losing sight of community impactThe importance of staying committed to people and places over the long haulWhy strong paddling communities don’t happen by accident—they’re built through care and participationMarc’s story is a reminder that meaningful lives are often formed not through certainty, but through attention—by noticing what lights us up, listening carefully, and choosing to stay engaged even when the path is unclear.This episode invites listeners to reflect on their own relationship with water, work, and community—and to consider what it looks like to follow the spark when it appears.Mentioned in this episode:JointheACAJointheACA

In this episode of Following Waters, host Brett Mayer sits down with Greg Felt for a wide-ranging conversation about rivers, water law, and what it really takes to create durable outcomes for water systems in the American West.Greg lives in Salida, Colorado, where he has been guiding and outfitting fly-fishing trips on the Arkansas River since 1985. His early connection to water came through recreation, fisheries, and the places he loved to spend time. Over the decades, that connection deepened into a career spent navigating the complex intersection of water law, management, ecology, agriculture, and human relationships.Greg has served fourteen years as a director of the Upper Arkansas Water Conservancy District, three years with the Southeastern Colorado Water Conservancy District, and was appointed in 2020 by Governor Jared Polis as the Arkansas River Basin representative to the Colorado Water Conservation Board. He currently serves as Chairman of the Chaffee County Board of Commissioners.In this conversation, Brett and Greg explore why understanding water systems where you live and paddle matters—not just for policymakers, but for anyone who cares about rivers and landscapes.In this episode, we explore:How Greg’s path from fishing guide to water manager unfolded over timeWhy non-consumptive uses of water—like recreation and environmental flows—cannot succeed in isolationThe importance of relationships, trust, and collaboration in water managementA plain-language look at the Colorado River Compact and the challenges it presents todayThe Shoshone in-stream flow water rights success story, and why it matters for fish, agriculture, recreation, and downstream usersWhat participation actually looks like for citizens, paddlers, and river advocatesWhy water systems are inherently complex—and why long-term engagement is essentialThis episode is a reminder that rivers don’t just flow through landscapes—they flow through legal systems, governance structures, communities, and competing needs. The outcomes we see on the water are shaped by decisions made far upstream in time, policy, and relationship-building.Whether you’re a paddler, angler, landowner, or simply someone who wants to better understand how water works where you live, this conversation offers insight, context, and perspective on the long work of following waters.Mentioned in this episode:JointheACAJointheACAJointheACA

Jack (Jay) Ditty is an emergency room physician, lifelong paddler, and the creator of the Safety Break. In this episode, we sit down to explore the intersection of paddling culture, risk, medicine, and responsibility — not from a place of fear, but from experience and care.We talk about Jay’s path into paddling, how years in emergency medicine have shaped his understanding of risk, and why he believes the paddling community needs better, more honest conversations about safety. Jay shares the origin story of Safety Break, what he’s learned from hosting difficult conversations, and how storytelling can help normalize preparation, reflection, and humility on the water.This conversation digs into the tension many paddlers feel: pushing personal limits while also recognizing the responsibility we carry — to partners, families, first responders, and the communities we paddle in. Jay offers a thoughtful perspective on how we can hold space for progression and consequence at the same time.A grounded, practical episode for anyone who paddles — especially those who care deeply about the long-term health of our community.Mentioned in this episode:JointheACAJointheACAJointheACA

In this episode of Following Waters, we sit down with Joe Cook of Georgia River Network to unpack one of the most important — and least understood — water access debates in the Southeast: Freedom to Float in Georgia.Georgia is home to some of the most beautiful and biologically rich rivers in the country, yet paddlers, anglers, and river users often find themselves caught in conflict over where they are legally allowed to float, wade, or stop. At the heart of the issue is a murky mix of 19th-century law, modern recreation, private property concerns, and public trust — and a growing movement to clarify what access really looks like in a changing state.Joe helps us understand:How Georgia’s river access laws evolved — and why they’re so confusing todayWhat “navigable waters” means in Georgia (and why that definition matters)Where conflicts between landowners and paddlers most often ariseRecent legislative efforts and advocacy work around Freedom to FloatWhat’s at stake if access continues to be restricted or left unclearHow everyday river users can stay informed, engaged, and respectfulThis conversation isn’t about winning arguments — it’s about finding balance: honoring private property rights while protecting rivers as shared public resources that connect communities, ecosystems, and generations.Whether you paddle every weekend or have never thought about who “owns” a river, this episode offers a clear, thoughtful look at why access matters — and how it shapes our relationship with water.Find out more at Georgia RiversMentioned in this episode:JointheACAJointheACA

Bryan Kirk — PB&Js and Big AirBryan Kirk’s story doesn’t start with podiums or product lines — it starts on the Delaware River, learning moves bit by bit near his grandmother’s farm, building a relationship with water that was patient, playful, and deeply rooted in family. Those early days were followed by long stretches on the Potomac River with his dad, where time together mattered as much as time in the boat.Support came in quiet but powerful ways: a first RPM from his mom, a Grand Canyon trip as a graduation gift from his dad — moments that didn’t just reward progress, but affirmed a path. At Virginia Tech, a series of fortuitous friendships helped Bryan lock in on the process, not outcomes, and sparked a fascination with freestyle moves that eventually felt less like a hobby and more like a calling.Faced with a “real job” option after college — including work at a gravel mine using his degree — Bryan made the harder, riskier choice: to major in kayaking, commit fully to progression, and see where the process would lead. That decision carried him from dedicated paddler to designer, team leader, and longtime force at Wave Sport, helping shape how freestyle kayaking looks, feels, and progresses.Throughout the conversation, Bryan reflects with deep gratitude — for family, for mentors, for friends, and for a journey built one move at a time. It’s a story about trust, patience, and choosing a life shaped by curiosity and care rather than certainty.This episode is about family, freestyle, progression, and the quiet courage it takes to keep showing up — gas up the truck, pack some PB&Js, and go kayaking.Instagram: bkayakerMentioned in this episode:JointheACAJointheACAJointheACA

In this episode of Following Waters, we sit down with Bill Endicott, one of the most influential figures in the history of American paddlesports.Bill’s impact on the sport is hard to overstate. As longtime head coach of the U.S. Canoe/Kayak Slalom Team, he guided American athletes to Olympic medals and international success, helping elevate U.S. slalom onto the world stage. But this conversation goes far beyond results and podiums.We explore Bill’s formula for success—a philosophy rooted not in outcome, but in deep fascination with the process. Bill shares how his coaching has always centered on helping athletes clearly see a path forward: seeing what’s possible, believing it’s attainable, and then committing fully to achieving it.Throughout the episode, Bill reflects on:What truly separates good athletes from great onesThe role of patience, repetition, and trust in long-term developmentHow belief is built—not demanded—in high-performance environmentsWhy sustained success comes from clarity of purpose, not pressureThis is a conversation about leadership, vision, and the quiet discipline required to build excellence over time. Whether you’re an athlete, coach, educator, or someone interested in how people reach their potential, Bill’s insights offer rare perspective from decades at the highest level of sport.A must-listen episode with a monumental figure whose influence continues to shape paddling in the U.S. and beyond.Mentioned in this episode:JointheACAJointheACAJointheACA

In this episode of Following Waters, host Brett Mayer speaks with Hattie Johnson of American Whitewater about her roots as a paddler and conservationist—and then dives deep into one of the most pressing river access issues in the country right now: the legal right to float in Colorado.Hattie shares how her personal relationship with rivers led her into conservation work, before walking listeners through the history of river access law in Colorado, how we arrived at the current moment, and why long-standing assumptions about paddlers’ rights are being challenged. Together, they unpack the evolving legal landscape, what recent conflicts mean for paddlers across the state, and why this issue extends far beyond Colorado’s borders.The conversation is both a primer and a call to awareness—helping paddlers understand the legal, historical, and political context of river access, while clarifying how individuals and communities can stay informed, engaged, and involved in protecting the ability to float rivers now and into the future.Topics include:Hattie’s pathway to rivers as both a paddler and conservationistThe history of the right to float in ColoradoWhy river access is being challenged nowWhat’s changed—and what’s at stake for paddlersHow American Whitewater is respondingPractical ways paddlers can stay engaged and support access effortsThis is a timely and important conversation for anyone who cares about rivers, access, and the future of paddling in the United States.Mentioned in this episode:JointheACA

In this episode of Following Waters, host Brett Mayer sits down with whitewater kayaker Isaac Hull, whose relationship with paddling began unusually early. Sponsored by the age of ten, Isaac effectively grew up alongside the river, learning not only how to paddle but how to navigate identity, expectations, and opportunity within the sport from a young age.The conversation traces how that early immersion shaped Isaac’s development as a paddler and as a person—from formative trips and long days on the water to the realities of growing up sponsored in a relatively small, tight-knit community. Isaac reflects on how early exposure influenced his approach to risk, progression, and longevity in the sport.Looking forward, the discussion explores how Isaac’s relationship with kayaking continues to evolve, what drives him now, and how time, perspective, and experience have reshaped his goals.Check out Isaac's instagram page to check out some of the drops we talked about in this episode, including Young's River Falls, and the log dodge in Mexico.Mentioned in this episode:JointheACAJointheACA

In this episode of Following Waters, host Brett Mayer speaks with Risa Shimoda about her path through whitewater paddling and into river conservation leadership. Risa shares how she learned to kayak as a young adult in the Ohio and gradually developed her skills, becoming part of the early wave of women pushing into more difficult whitewater.She reflects on landmark experiences including pioneering women’s descents in places like the Niagara Gorge, and how deeper engagement in the sport led her toward work in the paddlesports industry with Perception Kayaks. The conversation then traces her transition into conservation, including serving as the first Executive Director of American Whitewater, and her current role as Executive Director of the River Management Society. The episode focuses on how long-term involvement in paddling can evolve into leadership, advocacy, and stewardship.River Management SocietyFollowing WatersA podcast sponsored by the American Canoe Association featuring stories of education, stewardship, adventure, and competition that shape our collective connection to water.We create access through storytelling — offering insights and inspiration from the worlds shaped by rivers.One story at a time, we honor the people, places, and ideas that make paddling possible.About the Host, Brett MayerBrett’s connection to water began long before he picked up a paddle — growing up outdoors, studying environmental science and policy, and developing a deep interest in the ways people form bonds with place. After a Division I soccer career, he transitioned fully into the natural world, finding in paddling a profound sense of connection and purpose.In 2003, Brett began kayaking, eventually becoming a sponsored paddler working with several outdoor brands, traveling widely, and competing in a range of races. He later became an ACA Level IV whitewater instructor, founded and operated a river school and adventure-travel company, and spent years teaching young people to paddle. His career is distinguished by craft, commitment, and the simple love of being on the water. Over time, the miles on the water shaped him, and they helped him understand the sport in a way few others do.His perspective deepened through personal tragedy while writing his graduate thesis, The Lived Experiences of Whitewater Kayakers, a four-year exploration of how paddlers form meaning, identity, and community on the water. Brett completed much of this work while grieving the loss of his closest friend on the Grand Canyon — a period that strengthened his dedication to safety, storytelling, and honoring the river community.Today, Brett serves as Policy Director for the American Canoe Association, where he works on national access, public lands protections, paddlesports safety, and grassroots engagement. He has spent more than a decade collaborating with the Outdoor Alliance, advocating on Capitol Hill, and working with paddlers across the country to protect the places we love. He recently co-authored Smart Start, a modern introduction to paddling designed to welcome new participants and broaden access to the sport.Across all these roles — educator, guide, athlete, researcher, writer, and policy leader — Brett has shaped a holistic career in paddlesports. Following Waters is his way of giving that back to the community: creating access through storytelling, honoring the people and ideas that sustain paddlesports, and opening a world of wonder for listeners the same way it was opened for him when he first sat in a kayak more than twenty years ago.Above all, Brett believes that paddling isn’t just a sport; it’s deep medicine for the soul, a way to connect, steward, and grow.About American Canoe Association (ACA) — Staff Profile: Brett MayerFollowing Waters — ACA Story Project - personal essayResearch & Academic Work“The Lived Experiences of Whitewater Kayakers” A phenomenological study exploring why people paddle, conducted during your graduate work in Adventure Education at Prescott College. Media Appearances & InterviewsGuest on “The Discomfort Zone” with Anna Levesque — Ep. 81: “Conquering vs. Connecting”Kayak Session - Winter to Spring Entry#8 - Short Film of the Year Awards Mentioned in this episode:JointheACAJointheACA

Episode SummaryIn this episode, Brett sits down with Brad Burden, whose whitewater story spans early passion, professional intensity, a two-decade hiatus, and an unexpected return that has brought new meaning, joy, and connection to the second half of life.Brad opens up about his formative days paddling at the NOC, his early rise as a professional kayaker, and the four-year push that culminated in a near-miss incident on the Slave River—a moment that signaled a deeper emotional and mental exhaustion. What followed was a conscious step away from whitewater and eventually a full transition into a stable and grounded life as a high school teacher, basketball coach, husband, and father.Twenty years later, another shift in Brad’s professional life became the catalyst to rediscover a piece of himself he’d set aside. With humility and curiosity, he stepped back into the whitewater world—beginning with a return to the Gauley, where a swim on Lost Paddle reminded him both of who he used to be and who he is now.Brad shares how the next generation of paddlers welcomed him in with open arms, how community has shaped this re-entry, and why he feels compelled now to contribute, mentor, and reconnect through his new show, B Flow Sessions, a podcast dedicated to stories and people who shaped his life on the river.This is a reflective, inspiring episode about going hard, evolving identity, renewal, belonging, and the ways rivers have a way of calling us back.What We CoverBrad’s early years at the NOC and journey into professional kayakingThe emotional toll and burnout that followed a hard four-year pushThe near-accident on the Slave River that changed everythingWhy Brad stepped away from whitewater for 20 yearsBuilding a new life: teaching, coaching, marriage, and familyThe moment he realized he wanted to returnComing back to the Gauley — and swimming Lost Paddle after two decades off the riverThe generosity and welcoming spirit of the new generation of paddlersThe creation of B Flow Sessions and Brad’s desire to give backHow adventure, community, and self-understanding evolve in mid-lifeAbout Brad BurdenBrad Burden is a former professional kayaker, educator, coach, and storyteller whose decades-spanning relationship with whitewater has taken many shapes. After an intense period of professional paddling in the early 2000s, Brad stepped away from the sport for 20 years to build a career in teaching and basketball coaching, while focusing on family and personal growth. Recently, a major life transition brought him back to rivers with fresh perspective and renewed joy. Brad now hosts B Flow Sessions, a podcast exploring the people and stories who shaped his paddling journey and continue to inspire his return to the whitewater community.B-Flow Sessions9/11 and the Day the River Made Sense - EssayAbout Brett MayerBrett Mayer is the host of Following Waters, a storytelling platform sponsored by the American Canoe Association that explores education, stewardship, adventure, and competition across the paddlesports world. His work blends two decades of river experience with a lifelong commitment to environmental education, access, and community.Brett’s connection to water began long before he picked up a paddle — growing up outdoors, studying environmental science and policy, and developing a deep interest in the ways people form bonds with place. After a Division I soccer career, he transitioned fully into the natural world, finding in paddling a profound sense of connection and purpose.In 2003, Brett began kayaking, eventually becoming a sponsored paddler working with several outdoor brands, traveling widely, and competing in a range of races. He later became an ACA Level IV whitewater instructor, founded and operated a river school and adventure-travel company, and spent years teaching young people to paddle. His career is distinguished by craft, commitment, and the simple love of being on the water. Over time, the miles on the water shaped him, and they helped him understand the sport in a way few others do.His perspective deepened through personal tragedy while writing his graduate thesis, The Lived Experiences of Whitewater Kayakers, a four-year exploration of how paddlers form meaning, identity, and community on the water. Brett completed much of this work while grieving the loss of his closest friend on the Grand Canyon — a period that strengthened his dedication to safety, storytelling, and honoring the river community.Today, Brett serves as Policy Director for the American Canoe Association, where he works on national access, public lands protections, paddlesports safety, and grassroots engagement. He has spent more than a decade collaborating with the Outdoor Alliance, advocating on Capitol Hill, and working with paddlers across the country to protect the places we love. He recently co-authored Smart Start, a modern introduction to paddling designed to welcome new participants and broaden access to the sport.Across all these roles — educator, guide, athlete, researcher, writer, and policy leader — Brett has shaped a career that represents the full spectrum of ACA’s mission. Following Waters is his way of giving that back to the community: creating access through storytelling, honoring the people and ideas that sustain paddlesports, and opening a world of wonder for listeners the same way it was opened for him when he first sat in a kayak more than twenty years ago.Above all, Brett believes that paddling isn’t just a sport; it’s deep medicine for the soul, a way to connect, steward, and grow.AboutAmerican Canoe Association (ACA) — Staff Profile: Brett MayerFollowing Waters — ACA Story Project - personal essayResearch & Academic Work“The Lived Experiences of Whitewater Kayakers” A phenomenological study exploring why people paddle, conducted during your graduate work in Adventure Education at Prescott College.Media Appearances & InterviewsGuest on “The Discomfort Zone” with Anna Levesque — Ep. 81: “Conquering vs. Connecting”Hammer Factor - Episode 23Mentioned in this episode:JointheACAJointheACA

Episode SummaryIn this episode of Following Waters, Brett sits down with Jed Hinkley — Olympian, multi-discipline athlete, and national sport administrator — for a conversation that bridges personal journey with the future of competitive paddle sports in the United States.Jed reflects on his athletic beginnings as a six-year-old alpine racer, his transition to Nordic combined by age twelve, and his rise to represent the United States in the 2002 Winter Olympics. He shares memories from World Junior Championships, insights from years of elite athletic development, and the lessons he carried into his later work supporting sport pathways at USA Nordic and now at the American Canoe Association.Together, Brett and Jed explore the challenges and opportunities in building a stronger pipeline for young paddlers. They discuss infrastructure needs, coaching development, the vital role of community-based programs, and the often-overlooked connection between recreational paddling and competitive pathways. Jed also highlights the huge — and largely untapped — potential within summer camps as entry points for developing future athletes.This episode offers a thoughtful, forward-looking perspective on how to grow the sport’s competitive base while honoring the joy and culture of paddling that draw people to the water in the first place.What We CoverJed’s early athletic life and transition through multiple winter sportsHis journey to becoming a 2002 Olympian in Nordic combinedLessons from coaching, development, and sport administrationHow USA Nordic shaped his understanding of athlete pipelinesHis current role at the American Canoe AssociationWhy competitive paddling in the U.S. faces unique challengesThe opportunity to build stronger youth pathways and coaching systemsBridging rec-focused paddling communities with competitive programsThe overlooked potential of summer camps as talent incubatorsWhat a sustainable, intentional future for U.S. paddlesports could look likeAbout Jed HinkleyJed Hinkley is an Olympian, coach, and sport development leader whose career spans elite athletic performance and national-level program building. After competing in the 2002 Winter Olympics in Nordic combined, Jed moved into coaching and sport administration, supporting youth development, national pipelines, and high-performance structures at USA Nordic before transitioning to the American Canoe Association. His work focuses on strengthening competitive pathways, expanding access, and building systems that help young athletes thrive.Drop Jed a line at: jhinkley@americancanoe.orgAbout Brett MayerDrop me a line at: bmayer@americancanoe.orgBrett Mayer is the host of Following Waters, a storytelling platform sponsored by the American Canoe Association that explores education, stewardship, adventure, and competition across the paddlesports world. His work blends two decades of river experience with a lifelong commitment to environmental education, access, and community.Brett’s connection to water began long before he picked up a paddle — growing up outdoors, studying environmental science and policy, and developing a deep interest in the ways people form bonds with place. After a Division I soccer career, he transitioned fully into the natural world, finding in paddling a profound sense of connection and purpose.In 2003, Brett began kayaking, eventually becoming a sponsored paddler working with several outdoor brands, traveling widely, and competing in a range of races. He later became an ACA Level IV whitewater instructor, founded and operated a river school and adventure-travel company, and spent years teaching young people to paddle. His career is distinguished by craft, commitment, and the simple love of being on the water. Over time, the miles on the water shaped him, and they helped him understand the sport in a way few others do.His perspective deepened through personal tragedy while writing his graduate thesis, The Lived Experiences of Whitewater Kayakers, a four-year exploration of how paddlers form meaning, identity, and community on the water. Brett completed much of this work while grieving the loss of his closest friend on the Grand Canyon — a period that strengthened his dedication to safety, storytelling, and honoring the river community.Today, Brett serves as Policy Director for the American Canoe Association, where he works on national access, public lands protections, paddlesports safety, and grassroots engagement. He has spent more than a decade collaborating with the Outdoor Alliance, advocating on Capitol Hill, and working with paddlers across the country to protect the places we love. He recently co-authored Smart Start, a modern introduction to paddling designed to welcome new participants and broaden access to the sport.Across all these roles — educator, guide, athlete, researcher, writer, and policy leader — Brett has shaped a career that represents the full spectrum of ACA’s mission. Following Waters is his way of giving that back to the community: creating access through storytelling, honoring the people and ideas that sustain paddlesports, and opening a world of wonder for listeners the same way it was opened for him when he first sat in a kayak more than twenty years ago.Above all, Brett believes that paddling isn’t just a sport; it’s deep medicine for the soul, a way to connect, steward, and grow.About American Canoe Association (ACA) — Staff Profile: Brett MayerFollowing Waters — ACA Story Project - personal essayResearch & Academic Work“The Lived Experiences of Whitewater Kayakers” A phenomenological study exploring why people paddle, conducted during your graduate work in Adventure Education at Prescott College.Media Appearances & InterviewsGuest on “The Discomfort Zone” with Anna Levesque — Ep. 81: “Conquering vs. Connecting”Hammer Factor - Episode 23Mentioned in this episode:JointheACAJointheACA

Episode SummaryIn this episode of Following Waters, host Brett Mayer sits down with longtime paddler, competitor, educator, and conservation entrepreneur Sam Drevo. From his early beginnings in Maryland at Valley Mill Camp to winning the Gorge Games, founding eNRG Kayaking, teaching thousands of new paddlers, and helping steward Rios Lodge on Costa Rica’s Pacuare River, Sam’s life has been defined by rivers in every way imaginable.We explore the arc of his whitewater journey—competition, teaching, guiding, business-building, river cleanups, stewardship, loss, resilience, and what it means to dedicate a life to paddlesports and the health of the places we love.In This Episode, Sam Shares:The river moments that shaped him mostWhat it felt like to build a paddlesports business from the ground upHow competition informed his approach to teaching and safetyWhy he believes paddlers have a unique responsibility to steward their riversHow the 2020 wildfires changed his life, his priorities, and his workWhat makes Rios Lodge a model for eco-tourism and cultural conservationHis advice for the next generation of paddlers, guides, and river leadersGuest BioSam Drevo is a veteran whitewater athlete, ACA instructor trainer, Rescue 3 educator, river conservationist, and founder of eNRG Kayaking, one of the most widely recognized paddlesports schools in the Pacific Northwest. He competes, coaches, teaches, and advocates for rivers globally, and is part of the stewardship team behind Rios Lodge on Costa Rica’s Pacuare River—continuing the conservation-first legacy of the late Rafael Gallo. Sam also serves on the board of We Love Clean Rivers, a nonprofit transforming recreation into river restoration through community cleanups and watershed partnerships.Links & ResourceseNRG KayakingRios Lodge (Pacuare River)We Love Clean RiversACA Instructor & Education ProgramsAbout the HostBrett Mayer is the Policy Director for the American Canoe Association and host of Following Waters. His work spans paddlesports education, environmental stewardship, access advocacy, and community storytelling, drawing from two decades of experience as an educator, researcher, ACA instructor, sponsored paddler, and public lands advocate.Call to ActionIf you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Following Waters on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. New episodes celebrate the voices shaping paddlesports, stewardship, adventure, and community.Mentioned in this episode:JointheACAJointheACA

Episode SummaryToday’s guest is Lisa Raleigh, Executive Director of RiverLink, a nonprofit based in Asheville that champions the health, accessibility, and resilience of the French Broad River and its watershed.A trained geologist and hydrologist with a PhD in Environmental Science from the University of Oklahoma, Lisa’s path has wound through nonprofit advancement, outdoor industry communications, and community leadership. Since arriving at RiverLink in 2021, she has guided the organization through major milestones — from the opening of Karen Cragnolin Park to the evolving role RiverLink now plays in post-Hurricane Helene recovery efforts.In this conversation, Lisa and host Brett Mayer explore the intersections of science, story, and stewardship: how rivers shape community identity, how resilience is being redefined in a changing climate, and how each of us can help create healthier waterways.Episode HighlightsLisa’s early experiences in Montana and the path that led her to study geology and hydrologyLessons learned from decades in nonprofit leadership and community engagementThe opening of Karen Cragnolin Park as a symbol of restoration and access along the French BroadHow Hurricane Helene revealed both vulnerabilities and collective strength across Western North CarolinaThe evolving concept of “making room for rivers” in the age of climate changeFinding personal balance, hope, and renewal in the work of resilienceAbout Lisa RaleighLisa is a scientist, fundraiser, and outdoor enthusiast who brings a lifelong love of nature and a deep commitment to environmental and social justice to her leadership at RiverLink. Before joining the organization, she spent more than a decade as the Director of Advancement at Colorado Rocky Mountain School, co-founded Backbone Media, and worked as a nonprofit fundraising consultant.A Montana native who lived in Colorado for 30 years before relocating to Asheville, Lisa is also a trail runner, climber, road biker, and proud mother of two daughters, Sunni and Belle.Resources & MentionsRiverLink Blue Ridge Public Radio – Cleaning Up the French Broad after HeleneEdible Asheville – A Force of Nature: A Conversation with Lisa RaleighKaren Cragnolin ParkMentioned in this episode:JointheACAJointheACA

Episode 7 — Giving Back to the River with Jon StamperWhat does it mean to give back to the waterways that have given us so much?In this episode, Jon Stamper—River Cleanup Coordinator at MountainTrue and lifelong paddler—joins Brett to explore the intersection of rivers, community, and stewardship. Together they reflect on the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Helene and what stewardship and resilience looks like in the region.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy the health of our rivers is directly tied to the health of our communitiesPractical ways paddlers and outdoor enthusiasts can get involved in watershed stewardshipHow Hurricane Helene changed the landscape for environmental advocacy in Western North CarolinaThe importance of local action and why giving back starts close to homeWhy ListenIf you’ve ever wondered how to deepen your relationship with the waterways you love, this conversation will inspire you to see stewardship not as an obligation, but as an extension of joy and gratitude, and a central part to our experience as paddlers.Check It OutMountain True - Mountain Strong Recovery Fund

Episode 6 – The Sofi Reinoso Story: Carving a Path from Veracruz, Mexico to the Olympic StageShow NotesIn this episode of Following Waters, host Brett Mayer sits down with Sofi Reinoso, a two-time Olympian, Pan American Games medalist, and the first Mexican canoe slalom paddler to win a medal at an ICF event.Sofi shares her journey from growing up around the rivers of Veracruz, Mexico, to competing on the world’s biggest stage in Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024. Along the way, she talks about what first drew her to paddling, the challenges of training with limited resources, and how the river continues to shape her vision for life on and off the water.This conversation dives into the lived experience of being a paddler at the highest level, highlighting the four phases of the whitewater journey — initiating, deepening, imagining, and appreciating — and how Sofi’s story embodies each one.What You’ll Hear in This Episode:Sofi’s first encounters with the rivers of Tlapacoyan and how she got her start in kayakingThe mentors and community who helped her deepen her skills and identity as a paddlerThe challenges of representing Mexico internationally and training without consistent supportThe meaning and possibility she’s discovered through paddling — on the water and in lifeHer reflections on gratitude, responsibility, and being a role model for the next generation of paddlersLinks & Resources:Follow Sofi Reinoso on InstagramInternational Canoe Federation – Athlete ProfileConnect with the Show:Follow Following Waters on Instagram: @followingwatersSubscribe on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyShare your story: Reach out via Instagram if your life has been shaped by the water

In this episode of Following Waters, host Brett Mayer sits down with Steve “Steve-O” McKone, director of the Calleva River School in Poolesville, Maryland. Steve-O shares his journey from his first paddle on the George Washington Canal at 19, to becoming a lifelong paddler, teacher, and community builder.Together, Brett and Steve explore:The moment kayaking first captured Steve-O’s imagination and soul.How Calleva River School cultivates grit, resilience, and confidence in paddlers of all ages.Stories of challenge, growth, and joy that come from a life spent on the water.Steve-O’s vision for building community and inspiring the next generation of paddlers in the D.C.–Maryland–Virginia region.Reflections on why paddling is more than just sport—it’s a way of shaping life and meaning.Brett also shares a personal update about returning from the Gauley River and dedicates this episode to the memory of paddler Pat Miljour.Links & ResourcesCalleva River School: calleva.orgFollow Following Waters on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Brett’s research: The Lived Experiences of Whitewater Kayakers: A Phenomenological ExplorationAbout the PodcastFollowing Waters explores how rivers shape our lives and the stories we carry from them. Each episode, host Brett Mayer invites paddlers, educators, and river leaders to share authentic conversations about life on the water.

Episode 4: The Anna Levesque StoryJoin us for a powerful conversation with paddling and mindset pioneer Anna Levesque, who works to bring a more holistic path to paddling culture through coaching, yoga, breath work, and cultivating awareness.About Anna LevesqueAnna is a Canadian paddler, former World Freestyle Kayak medalist, and author of Yoga for Paddling. She founded Mind Body Paddle, blending kayaking, yoga, Ayurveda, and mental agility coaching to empower paddlers—especially women—and has been named one of the “most inspirational paddlers alive” by Canoe & Kayak Magazine .Anna hosts The Discomfort Zone podcast, helping listeners navigate fear and embrace discomfort as a path to growth and flow. She’s interviewed on other shows, including For the Love Of podcast, discussing fear, confidence, and mindset strategies.Explore her work at annalevesque.com and follow her on Instagram: @annaclevesqueWhat You’ll Hear in This EpisodeHow she moved from being overlooked as a female paddler to pioneering women’s coaching in kayakingThe emotional and practical journey behind producing the first female-focused instructional DVDHer personal system: the 5 Tenets of River Running and mental agility tools for paddling and life .Why she integrates yoga, Ayurveda, and breathwork into paddling coachingHow Mind Body Paddle has reshaped paddling culture toward inclusivity and emotional resilienceBalancing flow, fear, and identity on the water and offIf Anna’s story inspired you:Please subscribe and leave a review wherever you listen. Share her journey with fellow paddlers and anyone craving confidence, courage, and connection—on water or off.Episode drops in two weeks!This episode is sponsored by the American Canoe Association. Head over to the ACA and join or renew your membership today!Mentioned in this episode:JointheACA

Episode 3: Maps, Memories, and the Currents that Shape Us: Gordon Dalton & the Spirit of ExplorationFrom the rivers of Virginia to backcountry creeks across the country, Gordon Dalton’s life is defined by paddling, wilderness discovery, and thoughtful storytelling.About Gordon DaltonGordon is a Virginia-based paddler whose passion for rivers began with a canoe in 1989 and his first kayak in 1992. Since then, he’s explored countless creeks across the Blue Ridge and American West, working as a video kayaker in the late 1990s on rivers like the New and Gauley. Along the way, he helped pioneer and document many of Virginia’s now-classic creek runs, blending adventure with preservation and education.He’s the longtime organizer of the Goshen Pass downriver race on the Maury River—started in 2007 as a grassroots competition and grown into a beloved spring gathering, organized by Gordon and built on low-ego, shared paddling culture.Gordon balances his passion for rivers with a day job as a speech therapist, which allows him summers exploring western snowmelt creeks. When he’s not paddling, he shares his discoveries through photography, guidebook contributions, and storytelling—always wrestling with what to share and what to leave undiscovered.Check out Gordon's instagram: @gdaltonphotoWhat You’ll Hear in This EpisodeGordon’s early inspirations—what made him fall in love with paddling.Behind the scenes of working as a video kayaker on iconic rivers.How he discovered and documented Virginia creeks and brought them into the paddling community.The origin story of Goshen Pass Race, its grassroots ethos, and why it endures as a place-based tradition.Gordon’s ongoing tension between documenting adventure and protecting wild runs from overexposure.Reflections on the importance of working together to protect accessShare the StoryIf Gordon’s journey—rooted in exploration, self-discovery, and community building—resonated with you, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you listen. Help amplify a narrative of paddling stewardship, slow river exploration, and the richness of stories born from following waters.Stay tuned for episode 4: more voices, more rivers, and more lessons from Following Waters!Mentioned in this episode:JointheACA

Episode 2: Kickflips, Currents & Preparation — The Adam Herzog StoryFrom skate parks to the powerful flow of the Stikine River, Adam Herzog shares how intentional preparation and a love for place shaped his journey as a paddler, racer, and wilderness medicine educator.Featured Guest: Adam HerzogAdam Herzog started out skateboarding in Western North Carolina before discovering paddling in his teens. Over the years, that transition blossomed into a paddling career defined by discipline, edge-of-your-seat adventure, and deep purpose. After racing the Green Race annually for over two decades, he ultimately fulfilled a lifelong aspiration: running the legendary Stikine River, often dubbed the “Mount Everest of kayaking” .Adam’s pursuits extend beyond the water—he’s a paramedic, trauma nurse, and wilderness medicine educator, known for his "Close Calls" storytelling in American Whitewater, exploring near-miss rescues and lessons in risk management. He also teaches via NOLI Learning (kayaking and rescue training)—find more at NOLILearn.orgFollow his journey and daily reflections on Instagram: @ZogTrainingWhat You’ll Hear in This EpisodeHow Adam’s skateboarding roots led to a paddling obsession.A behind-the-scenes look at training for the Green Race and staying injury-free.The physical and mental preparation for paddling the iconic Stikine River.Lessons learned from injuries and rescue scenarios as a trauma nurse.His philosophy around teaching, safety, and passing paddling on to the next generation.Other Podcasts Featuring AdamEpic follow-up interview on Inspire Campfire in The Highs and Lows of Adventure with Adam Herzog Also featured on The Discomfort Zone Podcast discussing resilience post accident.Share the JourneyIf you found Adam’s story inspiring, please subscribe and leave a rating on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Share with a paddling buddy or a friend who loves adventure and deep conversations.Stay tuned for Episode 3 with Gordon Dalton, where we will explore Virginia Creek culture, race organizing, and the life of a grassroots paddling legend.