Paddling The Blue Podcast

#135 - Canoecopia 2025 Madison, WI - The annual paddlers family reunion

Join me as we navigate the vibrant atmosphere of Canoecopia, the world's largest paddle sports expo.
Billed as the world’s largest paddlesports expo, Canoecopia features more than 100,000 square feet of canoes, kayaks, kit, outfitters, everything you can imagine, plus more than 100 speakers on an incredible array of topics and I am honored to be one of those speakers. Thanks to Chris Hipgrave and the entire P&H Pyranha kayaks team for making space in their booth to record this episode, and of course for producing my favorite boats. 
We’ve got a great lineup of guests for today’s episode.  We’ll hear from:
Graham Mackereth, founder of Pyranha kayaks and owner of Pyranha and P&H
Erika Rivers, Wilderness Inquiry, a non-profit dedicated to getting those of all ages and abilities into the wilderness
Vincent Robichaud, founder of Trailtopia, shares how cooking meals for friends turned into cooking more meals for lots more friends
Long time friend, Lenore Sobota, tells us about the return of one of the Great Lakes most revered events, Ladies of the Lakes
Stig Larsson shares what’s happening with the Paddlesports Trades Coalition and a new initiative to get more people on the water
and, Darren Bush, the Chief Paddling Evangelist with Rutabaga Paddleports joins us to share his excitement for a great new event that I am personally excited about, Camp Rutabaga.
The thumbnail image for today's episode is Darren Bush's annual tradition of gathering  with the crowd as the doors open and taking a selfie.  Canoecopia is so much more than a trade show. It’s the friendships. It's a paddling family reunion of sorts. As we emerge from a long winter it’s nice to get together with friends and talk about past and future adventures together.  It’s things like this that remind you what a great community of paddlers we have around us. Thank you for being so much fun!
As a reminder, if you’re not already a subscriber to onlineseakayaking.com, James and Simon keep on adding to the menu. Visit onlineseakayaking.com and use the coupon code PTBPODCAST at checkout and you’ll get 10% off up to 12 months of your subscription investment.  
Enjoy today’s episode from Canoecopia!

#134 - Exploring the 2025 Quiet Adventures Symposium - Lansing, MI USA

Join this for week's episode of the Paddling the Blue podcast as we take you to the 30th annual Quiet Adventures Symposium in Lansing, Michigan. This episode features conversations with show exhibitors and enthusiasts in the world of Great Lakes paddling, including representatives from the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, Michigan Sea Grant, the BOAT Bus, the Wolf Moose Foundation, The Connected Paddler, and Woods and Waters Adventures. Discover initiatives focused on paddle safety, environmental education, and community enrichment. 
 
Join us on an adventure!
I am very excited to be partnering with Woods and Waters Adventures to lead a fantastic skills weekend September 18-21, 2025. Beautiful Lake Huron and the Eastern UP will be our playground to gain confidence, develop personal and group skills, and work on risk management strategies to stay safe and best enjoy time on the water. This weekend is about the willingness to play, learn, and try new things while enjoying camaraderie among a small group of outdoor friends. Over the 4 days, participants will learn and improve their outdoor skills while paddling premium P&H sea kayaks and enjoy chef-curated meals by a Les Cheneaux Culinary School graduate. Details, pricing, and registration is available at woodsandwaters.eco.
 
 
Resources from today's episode:
US Coast Guard Auxiliary Air Station Traverse City
US Coast Guard AUXPAD program
Michigan Sea Grant
The BOAT Bus
Wolf Moose Foundation
Isle Royale Wolf Moose Study
The Connected Paddler
Great Lakes Sea Kayak Symposium
Quiet Adventures Symposium

#133 - Environmental Conservation and the Rich Paddling Heritage of Ireland's Causeway Coast with Robin Ruddock

Robin Ruddock is a respected advocate for sea kayaking and environmental conservation on Ireland's picturesque Causeway Coast. In this episode, we delve into Robin's extensive career, during which he has introduced over 20,000 young people to the joys of paddling and the unique natural history of Ireland's North Coast.
Robin shares his personal paddling story, the rich folklore, and the breathtaking beauty of the Causeway Coastline, including insights on the area's geology, wildlife, and historical significance. 
We'll also explore the amazing opportunities for visitors to experience the kayaking wonders of this vibrant region, complete with local resources and guides to help you navigate the scenic coast. 
North Coast Sea Kayak Trail
What’s a Currach?
Causeway Coast Kayak Club
Giant’s Causeway
Legend of Finn McCool

#132 - Living a Courageous Life as a Kayaking Nomad with Wendy Killoran

Wendy Killoran joins today's episode of the Paddling the Blue podcast. Wendy is a passionate sea kayaker and adventurer and she shares her transformation from elementary teacher to a paddling nomad, living life on her own terms. As she takes us through her extensive kayaking experiences, from circling Prince Edward Island to the rugged shores of Newfoundland, Wendy reveals how these journeys have helped her feel more alive and connected to nature.
Wendy discusses her philosophy of living courageously, facing fears, and constantly questioning what truly matters. Her adventures are not just about kayaking but about personal growth and the freedom she finds on the water, whether paddling solo around Newfoundland or exploring the icy fjords of Iceland.
Join us as Wendy inspires with her tales of resilience, discovery, and living a life full of adventure and purpose.
Kayak Wendy (Instagram)

Innovating and Adding Value to Everyday Kayak Gear, and fun names too - with Steve Whetman

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

#130 - Building Extreme Expedition Kayaks with Rob Feloy

In today's episode of Paddling the Blue, we are talking with renowned kayak designer and builder Rob Feloy. Rob shares the intricate process of creating kayaks specifically designed for some of the world's most extreme paddling expeditions, including famous crossings from Greenland to Scotland and from California to Hawaii.
Rob shares insights into the specialized design considerations that go into making trans-oceanic craft, emphasizing the importance of sealed cabins and self-righting capabilities for prolonged periods at sea. Rob also sheds light on the complexities of fitting advanced technology and redundancy systems into his kayaks to ensure safety and reliability.
Don't miss Rob’s reflections on past projects and the lessons learned, giving us a glimpse into the blend of innovation, tradition, and meticulous craftsmanship embodied in his creations. 
Connect:
Rob at Inuk Kayaks
Learn:
Inuk Kayaks
Kirton Kayaks
Cyril Derreumaux's CA to Hawaii kayak
Voyage of the Finnmen
Film
Daniel Davy ("a proper Naval Architect)
 

#129 - Solo Kayak to Hawaii, and now the Atlantic, with Cyril Derreumaux (Replay)

Welcome to today’s episode of Paddling the Blue. Thanks for joining me for this special replay edition.
I’m taking a much needed break around the holidays. This is actually my first break from releasing an entirely new episode in more than four years! Thank you for continuing to listen and support the Paddling the Blue podcast.
I interviewed Cyril Derreumaux in October 2022, just a couple weeks after he completed his solo kayak from California to Hawaii.  Well, he’s back at it again, this time Cyril is paddling the Atlantic from the Canary Islands to Martinique.  I thought it might be fun, and timely, to relive that episode and hear about all the things that made the Pacific journey a success.
In this episode Cyril shares a lot about his preparation and the personal experience of making this trip. Planning, more planning, pain, perseverance, it’s all in this trip.  
Enjoy today’s replay episode with Cyril Derreumaux!
Cyrilderreumaux.com
Cyril Derreumaux Adventure (Facebook)
Solo Kayak the Atlantic
Solo Kayak to Hawaii
Inuk kayaks (Rob Feloy)
Coup de tete-Bon Entendeur (the song of the crossing)
Photo credit: Tom Gomes

Best friends, bold crossings, and bombs around Britain with Barry Shaw

In today's episode of the Paddling the Blue podcast, John is joined by the adventurous Barry Shaw, who takes us through his incredible journey from a novice to a seasoned paddler, making bold crossings to Ireland, St. Kilda, and even going around Britain.
Barry shares his experiences of challenges and triumphs on the waters, his strong bond of friendship with fellow kayakers, and the invaluable lessons learned along the way. From gripping tales of surviving drop zones to the joy of exploration in remote coastlines, Barry's stories are sure to captivate and inspire you. 
Connect:
Barry Shaw (Facebook)

#127 - The Yukon River Quest Uncovered

Welcome to today's episode of Paddling the Blue.
In this special feature, we dive deep into the world of the Yukon River Quest, an exciting race set in the stunning landscape of Canada’s Yukon territory. Four veteran racers, Thomas Schillig, Bill Siersdorfer, Mirko Prufer, and Esther Wheeler,  share their unique experiences and why this challenging event holds a special place in their hearts.
This episode offers a glimpse into the camaraderie, personal triumphs, and the spirit of adventure that define the Yukon River Quest. 
Yukon River Quest
YRQ on Facebook
Photo Credit: Mark Kelly Photography

#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