Paddling The Blue Podcast

#126 - 189 days around the UK and Ireland by Kayak with Felipe Behrens

Felipe Behrens joins todays thrilling episode of Paddling the Blue , fresh from his incredible 189-day kayaking journey around the UK and Ireland. Felipe shares the story of his ambitious expedition, highlighting his meticulous skill-building process that prepared him for this monumental adventure.
Throughout the episode, Felipe recounts his experiences, the challenges he faced, and the vibrant kayaking community that supported him along the way. From navigating the treacherous waters of the Pentland Firth to the welcoming shores of Ireland, Felipe’s journey is both inspiring and informative.
Don't miss this captivating story of resilience, exploration, and the pursuit of kayaking dreams.
Connect:
Around on my kayak
Facebook (around on my kayak)
Learn:
Paddling in Circles-Sean Morley's 2004 UK and Ireland expedition (from Expedition Kayak)
Pentland Firth
Intracoastal Waterway
 

#125 - Exploring Ireland's East Coast, RNLI, and the challenge of going solo with Caoimhe Connor

In this episode of Paddling the Blue, host John Chase welcomes Caoimhe Connor to discuss the hidden treasures of Ireland's East Coast. Caoimhe shares her insights into the often-overlooked paddling opportunities in this picturesque region, highlighting its unique landscapes and vibrant wildlife.
Caoimhe also delves into her personal experiences with the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), offering valuable advice for paddlers on safety and rescue techniques. She candidly discusses her adventures and challenges with solo paddling, including her incomplete circumnavigation of Ireland and her attempt at Iceland, providing a reflective look at the ups and downs of solo expeditions.
Instagram
Email
Tollymore National Outdoor Centre
Royal National Lifeboat Institute advice for Kayakers
How to become a RNLI lifeboat volunteer

#124 - Martin Rickard - Greenland Calling: Respecting and Paddling Through History and Ice

In this episode of Paddling the Blue, Martin Rickard shares his deep connection to Greenland and his love for the county and its people while following the legendary paths of explorers Gino Watkins and Freddie Spencer Chapman.
Discover how a chance encounter with a book ignited Martin's lifelong love for Greenland and hear fascinating stories about his two-decade-long experience guiding expeditions through its stunning landscapes. Martin also discusses the impact of climate change on Greenland's environment and the evolving role of tourism in the lives of its indigenous communities.
Join us as Martin reflects on the challenges and rewards of guiding in such a remote and breathtaking region, the importance of connecting with local people, and the unique experiences of paddling among majestic icebergs and humpback whales.
GreenlandKayakExpeditions.com
Gino Watkins
Freddie Spencer Chapman
Discovery of Shackleton's 'Quest'
 

#123 - Finding your Coastal Spirit paddling Mediterranean & UK Waters with Roger Chandler

Join us on this exciting episode of Paddling the Blue as we dive into the fascinating world of sea kayaking with Roger Chandler, a seasoned coach and guide from Anglesey. Roger shares his adventures paddling through stunning locations in the Mediterranean and the UK, revealing his journey from childhood explorations to becoming a skilled kayaker and coach.
Discover the warm water beauty of Sicily and the breathtaking circumnavigation of Mallorca and Menorca with fellow paddler Barry Shaw
As we transition to the cooler waters of the UK, Roger talks about the awe-inspiring landscapes of Duncansby Head and the unforgettable tall ship expedition to St. Kilda. Learn how these experiences have shaped his love for kayaking and influenced his coaching philosophy.
Connect with Roger and explore the wealth of resources available for sea kayaking enthusiasts. Don't miss this chance to paddle the blue with Roger Chandler!
CoastalSpirit.com
Coastal Spirit on You Tube
Mallorca and Menorca (from Limitlesspursuits.com)
Coastal Spirit (Facebook)
Roger Chandler (Facebook)

A Journey Down the Ganges (Ganga) River with Rency Thomas: 2,750 Kilometers of Adventure on India's most sacred river

Rency Thomas joins us to recount his incredible 2,750-kilometer solo journey from the source to the sea of India's Ganga (Ganges) River. Starting at the foot of a glacier and ending at the ocean, this expedition was the culmination of eight years of preparation. Hear firsthand from Rency about his experiences, challenges, and the cultural significance of this holy river.
Enjoy today's episode with Rency Thomas as he shares his inspiring story of humbleness, patience, adventure, and the deep connection to India's most sacred river.
Rency Thomas (Instagram)
Live360 Adventures
Ganges River (Wikipedia)
 
 
 

#121 - Coaching Insights and Tierra del Fuego with the Kayak Waveologist Greg Paquin

In this episode of Paddling the Blue, host John Chase speaks with Greg Paquin about his extensive involvement in British canoeing and his passion for paddle sports coaching. Greg shares his inspiring journey from civil engineering to becoming a full-time sea kayaking coach.
Greg also recounts his thrilling expedition to the remote and stunning landscapes of Tierra del Fuego, describing the breathtaking scenery and unique challenges faced along the way. Additionally, he discusses the inception and growth of the Autumn Gales event, which provides a platform for paddlers to experience advanced tidal race environments under expert guidance.
Listeners will gain valuable insights into the world of performance coaching in sea kayaking and learn how Greg's diverse experiences have shaped his coaching philosophy. Discover more about Greg's adventures and his contributions to the paddling community in this engaging episode.
Kayak Waveology
Autumn Gales
Contact Greg

#120 - Riding the Waves: Finding flow surf kayaking the Great Lakes with Keith Wikle

Welcome to today's episode of Paddling the Blue. Our guest, Keith Wikle, is a prolific surf kayaker and coach from the Great Lakes region. In this episode, Keith shares his journey into the world of surf kayaking, his mentors, and his experience organizing paddling events. He also offers valuable tips to enhance your surfing skills and enjoyment when the waves kick up.
Join us as Keith discusses his background, the transition from sea kayaking to surf kayaking, and the unique challenges and rewards of surfing the Great Lakes. He also reflects on his contributions to the paddling community through events like the West Michigan Coastal Kayakers Association symposium and his own event, the Gales.
Whether you're a seasoned paddler or just starting out, Keith's insights and stories are sure to inspire. Enjoy the episode!
Connect:
Go Kayak Now
West Michigan Coastal Kayakers Association
The Gales Storm Gathering
 
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#119 - Jim Tibensky - Racing kayak slalom, chasing birds, and a lifelong love for volunteering

Jim Tibensky joins today’s episode of the Paddling the Blue podcast.  Jim is a legend in the US slalom racing community and a selfless volunteer for many organizations. Today we talk about Jim’s ongoing racing career, how water makes a positive difference in his life, and how he regularly gives back to improve the lives of others through paddling.
Connect:
Facebook
Learn:
Chicago Adventure Therapy
Chicago Voyagers
Chicago Bird Collision Monitors
Apostle Islands
Lincoln Park Boat Club

#118 - Donal Dowd - Experiencing Irish Islands, Lighthouses, and Wallabies

Today I have the pleasure of talking with Donal Dowd. We cover quite a few topics, including his love for Irish islands and lighthouses, 40+ years pioneering outdoor education, and the home of Ireland’s wallabies. Thank you to Jon Hynes (episode #88) for making the connection with Donal. 
At the Water's Edge Two Boats, B. Ferrell
Dingle Publishing Services (info only)
Tertulia Book Shop, Westport
Abebooks.com
The wallabies of Lambay Island (BBC)
Blasket Islands
Commissioners of Irish Lights
Great Lighthouses of Ireland
Donal Dowd (Facebook)

Jon Dawkins - Searching for Kayak Bill and exploring the Outer Coast of British Columbia

Jon Dawkins received some advice from a friend that may surprise you that has led him to some of the best places on the outer coast of British Columbia as he explores the region one segment at a time. Along the way, he is also searching for a local legend affectionately named Kayak Bill. We’ll talk about all that in today’s episode.
Connect:
3MeterSwell
Facebook
Instagram
Resources:
Looking for Kayak Bill, by Neil Frazer (3MeterSwell)
Kayak Bill-A Requiem (3MeterSwell, originally appeared in Sea Kayaker Magazine, October 2005)
Blue Highways of the Inside Passage (3MeterSwell)
Randel Washburne's articles about his cabin building activities and the Burnett Bay cabin journals from 1985 – 2009
Triquet Island and Burnett Bay
Burnett Bay and Deserters
Burnet Bay Cabin Journals
To Be A Warrior: The Adventurous Life and Mysterious Death of Billy Davidson, by Brandon Pullan
John Kimantas books (Wild Coast series, Wild Places, BC Coast Explorer, BC Atlas, Vancouver Island Recreation Guide)
BC Marine Trails Association
Port Hardy to Klemtu (YouTube)