Shows
The Camp Voyageur PodcastThe History and Heritage of Summer Camp: An American TraditionJohn Burgman and Peter Grunawalt delve into the history of American summer camps.You might also like:Summer Camp: An American Tradition by John Burgman"Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on the lore of the Great Northwoods. They also trade Boundary Waters travel tips & advice compiled from over 550 days of canoe camping trips. Whether you’re a former camper, a current camper, or an adventure enthusiast looking to improve your Boundary Waters experience, th...
2025-12-151h 11
The Camp Voyageur PodcastHow Boyhood Has (and Hasn't) Changed with Chris SmithAlex and longtime teacher and father of four, Chris Smith, explore how boyhood has evolved in a world where boredom is rare and distractions are endless. From reminiscing about boyhood adventures and the quiet lessons once learned through unsupervised play to confronting modern challenges like smartphones, social media, and shifting ideas of masculinity, they reflect on what’s been gained... and what’s been lost."Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on the lore of t...
2025-11-1559 min
The Camp Voyageur PodcastWhat Has Happened to Camping? By Charlie ErdmannIn the 1980s, Camp Voyageur’s founder and longtime director, Charlie Erdmann, wrote an article for the Ely Echo titled “What Has Happened to Camping?” Decades later, his reflections on wilderness, character, and the “total camping experience” feel more relevant than ever."Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on the lore of the Great Northwoods. They also trade Boundary Waters travel tips & advice compiled from over 550 days of canoe camping trips. Whether you’re a former cam...
2025-10-1505 min
The Camp Voyageur PodcastDave Casey on Meeting Sig Olson, Being an Outdoor Educator, & Recognizing the Fragility of the Boundary WatersOne of Camp Voyageur’s most beloved former counselors, Dave Casey, sits down with host John Burgman for a wide-ranging conversation."Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on the lore of the Great Northwoods. They also trade Boundary Waters travel tips & advice compiled from over 550 days of canoe camping trips. Whether you’re a former camper, a current camper, or an adventure enthusiast looking to improve your Boundary Waters experience, there’s something for everyone in each e...
2025-09-151h 04
The Camp Voyageur PodcastKayaking the Apostle Islands with Mike WhaleyThe crew embarked on an eight-day voyage through the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore on mighty Lake Superior, exploring crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, historic landmarks, rugged shorelines, and enchanting sea caves."Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on the lore of the Great Northwoods. They also trade Boundary Waters travel tips & advice compiled from over 550 days of canoe camping trips. Whether you’re a former camper, a current camper, or an adventure enthusiast looking to improve your Bo...
2025-08-1544 min
The Camp Voyageur PodcastLIVE from the Boundary Waters: Canoe Trips through Kids’ EyesThe boys recount the unforgettable trials and tribulations of their recent 4-day adventures in the Boundary Waters."Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on the lore of the Great Northwoods. They also trade Boundary Waters travel tips & advice compiled from over 550 days of canoe camping trips. Whether you’re a former camper, a current camper, or an adventure enthusiast looking to improve your Boundary Waters experience, there’s something for everyone in each episode. Can...
2025-07-1527 min
The Camp Voyageur PodcastHow to Prepare for a Boundary Waters TripGet into the nitty gritty of planning and packing for a BWCA summer canoe trip! From gear lists to route tips, seasoned paddlers Alex and John break down what it takes to plan a safe and successful adventure in the Boundary Waters. Links: Packing List & Basic Food Portions.You might also like:9 Food Hacks You Can Do in the BWCAW by Alex Kvanli8 Golden Rules of Efficient Portaging by Alex KvanliTop 10 Mistakes Made at the Campsite by John Erdmann7 Cool Treasures Found on the Trail by Alex Kvanli"Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kva...
2025-06-1559 min
The Camp Voyageur PodcastTop BWCA DestinationsJohn and Alex combined have spent over 550 days exploring the Boundary Waters. They have paddled, portaged, and occasionally misnavigated in just about every corner of the BWCA. They reveal the best Boundary Waters destinations to plan your next trip around."Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on the lore of the Great Northwoods. They also trade Boundary Waters travel tips & advice compiled from over 550 days of canoe camping trips. Whether you’re a former camper, a cur...
2025-05-1634 min
The Camp Voyageur PodcastHow Kids Build Grit with Peter GrunawaltGrit: a combination of perseverance and courage. To not simply deal with being uncomfortable at times, but to actively seek out opportunities and challenges which push the comfort zone. "Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on the lore of the Great Northwoods. They also trade Boundary Waters travel tips & advice compiled from over 550 days of canoe camping trips. Whether you’re a former camper, a current camper, or an adventure enthusiast looking to improve your Boundary Wat...
2025-04-1529 min
The Camp Voyageur PodcastTrip Story: Adirondack "90-Miler" Canoe Classic with Ben KerstetterBen has an eye-opening experience in New York following his summer of guiding trips into the Boundary Waters."Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on the lore of the Great Northwoods. They also trade Boundary Waters travel tips & advice compiled from over 550 days of canoe camping trips. Whether you’re a former camper, a current camper, or an adventure enthusiast looking to improve your Boundary Waters experience, there’s something for everyone in each episode. ...
2025-03-1516 min
The Camp Voyageur PodcastThe Most Overlooked (and Often Forgotten) Trail Items on Boundary Waters Canoe TripsAlex and John are back to share tips on gear, preparation, and maximizing the wilderness experience.You might also like:The Biggest Boundary Waters Myths... BUSTED! with Alex and JohnBoundary Waters Gear Hacks with Alex and John9 Food Hacks You Can Do in the BWCAW by Alex Kvanli8 Golden Rules of Efficient Portaging by Alex Kvanli9 Newbie BWCAW Camping Questions Answered—Simply and Honestly by John Burgman"Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on th...
2025-02-1556 min
The Camp Voyageur PodcastOnward to the Bay! Lessons Learned Paddling from Ely to Hudson Bay with Peter GrunawaltPeter Grunawalt recounts his 39-day paddle to Hudson Bay alongside fellow Camp Voyageur alumni Elliot Keller, Charlie Steiner, and friend Matt Fossand. Setting off on June 15th, 2014, from the shores of Camp's bay, the team navigated rugged landscapes, wild rivers, and vast wilderness, arriving in Northeastern Canada on July 20th. Peter shares the challenges, triumphs, and life lessons gained from their extraordinary expedition. Check out their route here and trip video here."Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, i...
2025-01-1523 min
The Camp Voyageur PodcastFounder Charlie Erdmann's Interview on CampTalk (1998)Charlie was known for his larger-than-life persona and stories, wisdom, and love for teaching. But don’t take my word for it, hear it “straight from the horse’s mouth”, as Charlie would say!You might also like:Wise Words From Our Past by Peter GrunawaltA Freedom Almost Forgotten by Peter GrunawaltSummer Camp: An American Tradition by John BurgmanCharlie-isms by Chris Smith"Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on the lore of the Great Northwood...
2024-12-1536 min
The Camp Voyageur PodcastPaddle Post Archives: War Canoe to Knife Lake (1987)Another throwback trip story from the pages of an old Paddle Post newspaper. Story by Mike Zwirn."Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on the lore of the Great Northwoods. They also trade Boundary Waters travel tips & advice compiled from over 550 days of canoe camping trips. Whether you’re a former camper, a current camper, or an adventure enthusiast looking to improve your Boundary Waters experience, there’s something for everyone in each episode. Can...
2024-11-1505 min
The Camp Voyageur PodcastTrip Story: A Collection of Memories (ft. Tom McKenna)Longtime camper Tom McKenna recounts some highlights of his many trail adventures, including some experiences that took place in the rugged Alaskan backcountry after Camp.See also:Alumni Complete Canoe Trip Expedition in the Wilds of Canada by Alex Kvanli"Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on the lore of the Great Northwoods. They also trade Boundary Waters travel tips & advice compiled from over 550 days of canoe camping trips. Whether you’re a former ca...
2024-10-1510 min
The Camp Voyageur Podcast12 Days in Wabakimi Provincial Park, OntarioGrab a front-row seat as Alex shares stories from his crew's epic trip and the preparation involved. Don't forget to check out his trip video! The Wabakimi Provincial Park in Ontario offers world-class wilderness canoeing and fishing. After two days of whitewater canoe training, the crew rode a train into the park, embarking on a 12-day adventure traveling deep into Wabakimi. The park encompasses 10,000 lakes and a network of rivers and streams that provide nearly 1,000 miles of paddling routes. The park is pure northern grandeur, home to woodland caribou, eagles, and excellent pike, walleye, and lake trout fishi...
2024-09-151h 05
The Camp Voyageur PodcastBig Trips & CV Olympic Highlights with Ben, Ben, & HuckVeteran campers Ben and Huck share what it's like being a Camp Voyageur Olympic Captain, hiking in the mountains of Montana, paddling from Ely to Lake Superior, portaging over the 8.5-mile Grand Portage, & more."Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on the lore of the Great Northwoods. They also trade Boundary Waters travel tips & advice compiled from over 550 days of canoe camping trips. Whether you’re a former camper, a current camper, or an adventure enthusiast lo...
2024-07-151h 30
The Camp Voyageur PodcastLIVE Late Nights with Camp VoyageurJoin Ben and Ben live in the Mess Hall where campers and staff share hilarious stories of fish, epic trips, and current events. John Erdmann closes the show with two songs you can't miss."Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on the lore of the Great Northwoods. They also trade Boundary Waters travel tips & advice compiled from over 550 days of canoe camping trips. Whether you’re a former camper, a current camper, or an adventure enthusiast loo...
2024-06-1550 min
The Camp Voyageur PodcastThe Biggest Boundary Waters Myths... BUSTED!Co-hosts Alex and John discuss some of the biggest “myths” about camping in the Boundary Waters, including common misconceptions related to portaging, weather, trail food, and more. See also:8 Boundary Waters Canoe Tripping Myths Debunked by Alex Kvanli9 Newbie BWCAW Camping Questions Answered—Simply and Honestly by John BurgmanTop 10 Mistakes Made at the Campsite by John Erdmann--(Sound effects and music from Pixabay)--"Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect...
2024-05-161h 27
The Camp Voyageur PodcastPaddle Post Archives: The Sirens of Eskwagama (2001)A story about the time-honored camp day-trip of bushwhacking into Mystery Lake. Story by Jack Davidson and John Ranson. --(Sound effects and music from Pixabay)--"Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on the lore of the Great Northwoods. They also trade Boundary Waters travel tips & advice compiled from over 550 days of canoe camping trips. Whether you’re a former camper, a current camper, or an adventure enthusiast looking to improve your Boun...
2024-04-1507 min
The Camp Voyageur PodcastJim Nicholson on 50 Years of Canoe Trips, Meeting the Root Beer Lady, & Saving the Boundary WatersJim ponders how his tripping philosophy has changed since the 1960s and describes his visit with Dorothy Molter, the last permanent, non-indigenous resident of the Boundary Waters. You might also like:Canoeing: A Lifelong Pursuit by Alex Kvanli--(Sound effects and music from Pixabay)--"Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on the lore of the Great Northwoods. They also trade Boundary Waters travel tips & advice compiled f...
2024-03-1538 min
The Camp Voyageur PodcastTrip Story: Racing a Storm (ft. Ned Brandt)Ned Brandt recalls how the war canoe could be a heavy, cumbersome, water-logged vessel on the trail—but also how its size allowed for moving very fast across the water when absolutely necessary. --(Sound effects and music from Pixabay)--"Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on the lore of the Great Northwoods. They also trade Boundary Waters travel tips & advice compiled from over 550 days of canoe camping trips. Whether you’re a for...
2024-02-1504 min
The Camp Voyageur PodcastCharles Erdmann on Parenting Today's Kids, Developing Their Personalities, & Tips for Taking Them Camping (Without Screens)Charlie draws upon his experience raising four boys, camp counseling, and leading 100+ camping trips.See also:5 Things Every Prepared Parent Needs to Know About Summer Camp by Alex Kvanli9 Parenting Tactics We Use At Camp to Help Raise Successful Kids by Deb Erdmann9 Newbie BWCAW Camping Questions Answered—Simply and Honestly by John Burgman--(Sound effects and music from Pixabay)--"Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Vo...
2024-01-1633 min
The Camp Voyageur PodcastTom McKenna on Appreciating Leadership at Camp, Working Up to “Great Big Trips,” & Discovering Serendipitous Camp Connections Later in LifeCamp alumnus Tom McKenna recalls the camp programming of the 1960s, the memorable Greencastle and Monmouth cohorts of campers, and one of the most legendary “Voyageur Firsts.”See also:1960s: Changing with the Changing Times by John Burgman--(Sound effects and music from Pixabay)--"Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on the lore of the Great Northwoods. They also trade Boundary Waters travel tips & advice compiled from over 550 days...
2023-12-1538 min
The Camp Voyageur PodcastTrip Story: Digging Deep (ft. Dale Reckman)Dale Reckman reflects on a trip from the mid-1970s during which the solution to a particular dilemma resided in an unlikely place—on the muddy shoreline.--(Sound effects and music from Pixabay)--"Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on the lore of the Great Northwoods. They also trade Boundary Waters travel tips & advice compiled from over 550 days of canoe camping trips. Whether you’re a former camper, a current camper, or a...
2023-11-1505 min
The Camp Voyageur PodcastNed Brandt on Camp in the Late 1980s, His Unique Connection, & Lessons LearnedNed recounts his fond memories of Coach, a certain infamous trunk, Charlie Erdmann, and growing up at summer camp.See also:1980s: New Names, Same Voyageur Spirit by John BurgmanThe Trail of Life Documentary by John Behnke1980s photo gallery --(Sound effects and music from Pixabay, Charles P. Erdmann)--"Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on the lore of the Great Northwoods. They also trade Boundary Waters travel t...
2023-10-1926 min
The Camp Voyageur Podcast2023 Summer RecapAlex and John discuss some of the highlights from the recently concluded camp season, including pre-camp preparations, in-camp activities, and trail adventures. (Plus, Alex shares details and dates about the upcoming 2024 summer camp season!)--(Sound effects and music from Pixabay)--"Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on the lore of the Great Northwoods. They also trade Boundary Waters travel tips & advice compiled from over 550 days of canoe camping trips. Whether...
2023-09-151h 09
The Camp Voyageur PodcastTrip Story: The Ultimate Protein Diet (ft. Greg Lippert)Camp alumnus Greg Lippert recalls having to improvise when it came to eating well on the trail.--(Sound effects and music from Pixabay—Caffeine Creek Band, JuliusH, AntipodeanWriter, etc.)--"Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on the lore of the Great Northwoods. They also trade Boundary Waters travel tips & advice compiled from over 550 days of canoe camping trips. Whether you’re a former camper, a current camper, or an adventure enthusiast look...
2023-08-3003 min
The Camp Voyageur PodcastTrip Story: Almost There (ft. Joe Baumann)Former counselor Joe Baumann reflects on an overly ambitious trip to Nibin Lake and Bibon Lake—known as “Nibin & Bibon” in Camp Voyageur lore.--(Sound effects and music from Pixabay—Caffeine Creek Band, JuliusH, Breviceps, Andrewkn, etc.)--"Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on the lore of the Great Northwoods. They also trade Boundary Waters travel tips & advice compiled from over 550 days of canoe camping trips. Whether you’re a former camper, a...
2023-07-0116 min
The Camp Voyageur PodcastTrip Story: Paddling from Ely to Minneapolis with Bryan Halverson & Kyle EmmansBryan and Kyle share their 415-mile canoe expedition from Farm Lake to Minneapolis. --(Sound effects and music from Pixabay)--"Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on the lore of the Great Northwoods. They also trade Boundary Waters travel tips & advice compiled from over 550 days of canoe camping trips. Whether you’re a former camper, a current camper, or an adventure enthusiast looking to improve your Boundary Waters experience, there’s so...
2023-06-101h 03
The Camp Voyageur PodcastDale Reckman on Camp Donuts, Perfect Rocks, & The Value of Lifelong LearningDale Reckman was a camper for a couple of years in the mid-1970s, and he has continued to enjoy and explore the wilderness of Northern Minnesota ever since. In fact, he has spent a total of more than 300 nights in the Boundary Waters and the Quetico...and has acquired a lot of wisdom along the way. See also:A True Well-Rounded Education by Alex Kvanli--(Sound effects and music from Pixabay—Caffeine Creek Band, Olexy)--"Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to C...
2023-06-0143 min
The Camp Voyageur PodcastGreg Lippert on Benefitting from the Small-Group Dynamic, Gaining Proficiency on the Trail, & Attending Camp During the Tumultuous 1960sGreg Lippert attended Camp for a series of years that spanned the late 1960s and early 1970s. Almost immediately, he developed an affinity for the trail and became an avid fisherman. But more broadly, his time at Camp was marked by the historic happenings of the Vietnam War era, a unique and unprecedented time to be a camper.See also:Summer Camp: An American Tradition by John BurgmanA Freedom Almost Forgotten by Peter Grunawalt --(Sound effects and music from Pixabay—AudioCoffee)--"Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & Joh...
2023-05-1452 min
The Camp Voyageur PodcastTrip Story: Strange Sounds (ft. Ned Yonkers)Former camper and counselor Ned Yonkers recalls a trail dinner mishap...and its feared consequences. -- (Sound effects and music from Pixabay—Caffeine Creek Band, JuliusH, Musictown, and MondayHopes) -- "Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on the lore of the Great Northwoods. They also trade Boundary Waters travel tips & advice compiled from over 550 days of canoe camping trips. Whether you’re a former camper, a current camper, or an adventure enthusiast looking to impro...
2023-04-3006 min
The Camp Voyageur PodcastBoundary Waters Gear HacksAlex and John share some of their favorite gear tips. See also:9 Food Hacks You Can Do in the BWCAW by Alex Kvanli8 Golden Rules of Efficient Portaging by Alex Kvanli3 Musts in the BWCA by Hal HolmesTop 10 Mistakes Made at the Campsite by John Erdmann--(Music from Pixabay—Caffeine Creek Band)--"Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on the lore of the Great Northwoods. They also trade Bou...
2023-04-161h 01
The Camp Voyageur PodcastOtto Jose On His Career in Conservation, Introducing Kids to the Outdoors, & Chasing Mountain LionsOtto's passion for the outdoors included his Camp Voyageur summer experience in 1974. His love for the outdoors led to a 30+ year career in outdoor recreation/education and wildlife conservation. This included working for Indiana University's Bradford Woods Outdoor Education Center, Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. After all the time that has passed since being a Voyageur camper, he still considers the experience one of his most cherished memories. His son also attended Voyageur in 2016.See also:Staying Inside Could Harm the Environment by Alex Kvanli
2023-04-0147 minThe Camp Voyageur PodcastPaddle Post Archives: Horse Lake (1959)A fishing story for the ages...from the pages of an old Paddle Post newspaper. Story by David Millett.--(Sound effects and music from Pixabay—Nesrality and Olexy) --"Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on the lore of the Great Northwoods. They also trade Boundary Waters travel tips & advice compiled from over 550 days of canoe camping trips. Whether you’re a former camper, a current camper, or an adventure enthusiast looking to im...
2023-03-1505 min
The Camp Voyageur PodcastJoe Baumann on Pickleball, Photography, & the "Magical Meditation" of BWCAW CanoeingJoe Baumann was a counselor for many years, starting in 2007. His time at Camp included evolving from a total newbie to a renowned trail leader and trip enthusiast. But he also learned to embrace the quieter, easier times at Camp—and the special trail moments that are so hard to explain with words.-- (Sound effects and music from Pixabay—Caffeine Creek Band)--"Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on the lore of the...
2023-03-0229 min
The Camp Voyageur PodcastCrossing PaddlesAn audio exploration of one of Camp's most meaningful traditions.--(Sound effects and music from Pixabay—Phill_Dillow, 21039285, and Olexy)--"Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on the lore of the Great Northwoods. They also trade Boundary Waters travel tips & advice compiled from over 550 days of canoe camping trips. Whether you’re a former camper, a current camper, or an adventure enthusiast looking to improve your Boundary Waters experience, there’s someth...
2023-02-1511 min
The Camp Voyageur PodcastNeed for NatureWhy are we drawn to the Boundary Waters? See also:Nature's Effect on our Brains and Well-being by Alex KvanliHow Wilderness Adventures Foster Lifelong Success by Alex KvanliBeyond the Tower by John ErdmannBring Nature Indoors by Alex Kvanli--(Sound effects and music from Pixabay–Lesfm, betheart789, and Coma-Media)--"Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on the lore of the Great Northwoods. They also trade Boundary Waters travel tip...
2023-02-0107 min
The Camp Voyageur PodcastNed Yonkers on Shared Experiences, The Upside of Homesickness, & The Key to Feeling a Sense of BelongingNed started coming to Camp when he was 9 years old back in 2004. He made the long journey from New Hampshire to Ely every summer until 2018. From overnight trips to long expeditions in remote wilderness, Ned fell in love with the outdoors while at Camp, and forged some of his tightest bonds while on the trail. He now works as a university space planner in Boston, Massachusetts.See also:10 Tips for Preventing Homesickness by Alex Kvanli9 Parenting Tactics We Use at Camp to Help Raise Successful Kids by Deb Erdmann11 Proven Ways Wilderness Adventure Camps Can Transform...
2023-01-1543 min
The Camp Voyageur PodcastLootSometimes finding something really small on the trail can have a really big impact on the overall experience.See also:7 Cool Treasures Found on the Trail by Alex Kvanli--(Sound effects and music from Pixabay—SoundGalleryBy, Magiksolo, and ohhgeeeznotagain)--"Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on the lore of the Great Northwoods. They also trade Boundary Waters travel tips & advice compiled from over 550 days of canoe camping trips. Wh...
2022-12-3010 min
The Camp Voyageur PodcastDylan Jackson on Type 2 Fun, Outdoor Crafts, Untying Knots, Packing Small, & Portaging & Cooking EfficientlyDylan is Camp Voyageur's Trip Director and has spent over 200 days paddling in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Hailing from the Twin Cities, he is currently a senior at the University of Wisconsin-Stout studying computer and electrical engineering. In his free time he loves to tinker, design, and make everything from canoe paddles to custom circuitry.See also:9 Food Hacks You Can Do in the BWCAW by Alex Kvanli8 Golden Rules of Efficient Portaging by Alex Kvanli--(Sound effects and music from Pixabay—Lesfm and Olexy)--"Text us feed...
2022-12-1547 min
The Camp Voyageur PodcastGreat CampsitesWhat makes a campsite great? That’s actually a pretty loaded question!See also:Top 10 Mistakes Made at the Campsite by John Erdmann--(Sound effects and music from Pixabay—QubeSounds, Coma-Media, lesfm, and Playsound)--"Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on the lore of the Great Northwoods. They also trade Boundary Waters travel tips & advice compiled from over 550 days of canoe camping trips. Whether you’re a former camper...
2022-11-3014 min
The Camp Voyageur PodcastDoug Merriman on Exploring New Places, Canoeing Expeditions, Living with the Ojibway, Building & Racing Canoes, & Inspiring OthersDoug's love of canoeing began when he was a camper and counselor in the early 1970s. Following a 51-day canoe trip to Hudson Bay, in 1979, he went on a 68-day Alaska canoe expedition through the Brooks Range. He spent 1981 to 1982 living off the grid with the Ojibway First Nations people of the Winisk River in Northern Ontario.Doug’s love of canoeing led him to marathon canoe racing and custom-building composite competition canoes. He built over 1600 canoes over 24 years. This self-taught skill carried him on to 17 years of developmental research programs in Aerospace and Defense Contracting. All born...
2022-11-161h 02
The Camp Voyageur PodcastFirst PortageDo you remember crossing your first portage? For any outdoors enthusiast, it’s a rite of passage unlike any other.See also:What It's Like: Cross Your First Portage by John Burgman8 Golden Rules of Efficient Portaging by Ned YonkersCamper Insights: How Grand Portage Changes You by Alex Kvanli-- (Sound effects and music from Pixabay—Lesfm, 21039285, Breviceps, and olexy) --"Text us feedback."Co-hosts Alex Kvanli & John Burgman discuss all-things related to Camp Voyageur in Ely, Minnesota. They share trail stories, interview Voyageur alumni, & reflect on the lore of the...
2022-11-0109 min