Shows
Open Container: Outdoor culture as a free flowing conversationWhat's The Best Dumbest Thing You've Done In The Outdoors?Today Doug opens the container with Greg Williams.Doug begins the show by embracing dirtbag status. If you work in the outdoor industry, you are indeed a dirtbag. Because you have merged your passion for the outdoors with a career choice that should allow you more time outside. Doug is then joined by Greg Williams, president of Backbone Media, who shares his extensive background working at the intersection of business and outdoor culture. From starting a climbing gym in Philadelphia, to helping to lead one of the leading outdoor PR and media companies, Greg understands...2025-07-2944 minOpen Container: Outdoor culture as a free flowing conversationForming Our Values Through Our ExperiencesToday Doug opens the container with Ian Yolles.Doug begins the show by invoking the spirit of Henry David Thoreau whose philosophical tenets epitomized the need for individuals to reclaim their connection to nature. Doug also reflects on our experiences held in the wilderness and how they underscore the significant growth of resilience, and introspection. He is then joined by Ian Yolles who has worn many hats in the outdoor industry and community. Ian is one of the authors of the recently released book, Carry the Flame: The Remarkable Story of the Canadian Outward Bound...2025-07-2259 minOpen Container: Outdoor culture as a free flowing conversationYou Never Lose: You're Either Winning Or You're LearningToday Doug opens the container with retailers Nick & Chikki Shajwani.Doug begins this episode by recounting the life of his family who immigrated to the United States from Germany and discovered the outdoors while building a remarkable life in their new home country. Doug is then joined by brothers Nick and Chikki Shajwani, immigrant entrepreneurs who have founded and developed Molly's Place, a prominent establishment for hunting and outdoor gear on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. During their conversation they talk about their experiences turning a hardware store to a specialized outdoor retailer...2025-07-1539 min
The Rock Fight: Outdoor Industry & Adventure Sports CommentaryTaking The Temperature Of Outdoor CultureToday Colin is joined by the host of Open Container, outdoor journalist Doug Schnitzspahn, to check in on where outdoor culture sits halfway through 2025.Since the launch of Open Container in January Doug has had 26 conversations with artists, musicians, authors, brand founders and many others who operate in or around the outdoor community. Today he and Colin find out what he's learned so far and how it reflects on the broader outdoor world.For The Parting Shot, Colin previews his trip to next week's Outdoor Market Alliance Media Event and makes a prediction about Superman.2025-07-1149 minOpen Container: Outdoor culture as a free flowing conversationRoads, Beavers, And Why Humanity Has To Save ItselfToday Doug opens the container with author and beaver enthusiast Ben Goldfarb.Doug begins the episode discussing our obsession with roads. While there is a lot to love about the highways that take us to amazing places, the world is undoubtedly suffering because we've paved in so much of them. The topic of roads is timely given the Trump administration's rescinding of the roadless rule threatens to open 58 million acres of national forest to road building, posing significant risks to habitats and species. Doug is then joined by author Ben Goldfarb, who has written about...2025-07-081h 07Open Container: Outdoor culture as a free flowing conversationNot One Acre!Today Doug opens the container with Jessica Turner, president of the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable.Doug begins the show by recounting the personal impact the recent legislative attempt to sell off portions of our public lands had on him and the relief he felt when that attempt failed. He also highlights how the collective response from the outdoor world—spanning hunters, hikers, and conservation advocates—showed what the outdoor community is capable of when we act together. Doug is then joined by Jessica Turner, the president of the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable. During their conversation they dissect the...2025-07-011h 02Open Container: Outdoor culture as a free flowing conversationWithout Joy, What's The Purpose?Today Doug opens the container with Teresa Baker. Doug begins the show by weighing in on the timely and urgent need to protect our public lands, which are currently facing a historical and unprecedented threat. He talks about the implications of a legislative push that could result in the sale of millions of acres of these cherished spaces, highlighting a provision introduced by Senator Mike Lee that jeopardizes the beautiful and wild places that belongs to all Americans. Doug is then joined by Teresa Baker, a passionate advocate for inclusivity within the outdoor community who...2025-06-2458 minOpen Container: Outdoor culture as a free flowing conversationThe Outdoor Industry: From Wild To WealthToday Doug opens the container with outdoor industry insider, Eoin Comerford.Doug begins the show by reflecting on the evolution of the outdoor recreation industry and humanity's changing relationship with nature. What began as mere survival has changed to become the pursuit of recreation, contemplation, and connection within the natural world. Doug is then joined by the former CEO of Moosejaw Mountaineering Eoin Comerford. Today Eoin advises emerging brand and offers his insight into the outdoor industry on The Rock Fight podcast. The conversation highlights the economic significance of outdoor recreation, which now represents a...2025-06-1758 minOpen Container: Outdoor culture as a free flowing conversationVoices for the Voiceless: The Role of Environmentalists TodayToday Doug opens the container with outdoor industry media veteran, Drew Simmons.Doug opens the show lamenting the fact that despite the challenges our natural world faces, environmentalist has become a dirty word these days. He goes on to describe the 30 by 30 initiative, which seeks to conserve 30% of the Earth’s ecosystems by the year 2030, and implore Open Container listeners to help protect our planet however they can.Doug is then joined by Drew Simmons who is known for his work in the PR and media world of the outdoor industry. Their conversation navigates the re...2025-06-101h 07
The Daily Sun-UpDoug Schnitzspahn on nature, healing, and the "Open Container" podcastOutdoor journalist Doug Schnitzspahn joins Tracy Ross to talk about his podcast Open Container, how time outside helps people heal, and why the outdoors remains a steady presence in an increasingly fast-paced world.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.2025-06-0519 minOpen Container: Outdoor culture as a free flowing conversationRiver Time: Reclaiming Your Place In The WorldToday Doug opens the container with author and river guide Bridget Crocker.Doug opens the show describing the magic of river time. The feeling when one goes on a river trip and the confines of our modern lives go out the window. Where the simplicity and routine of the tasks required on the river take over and how this is especially true for those with ADHD.Doug is then joined by Bridget Crocker, a renowned river guide and author of The River’s Daughter; which is available to the public on the same day this ep...2025-06-0358 minThe Rock Fight: Outdoor Industry & Adventure Sports CommentaryJudging The Health Of Outdoor Media Plus: Everest FKT's & Pickleball Corner!Today Colin is joined by outdoor journalist and host of Open Container Doug Schnitzspahn to talk about a couple of stories to come out of the outdoor community before taking a look at the current health of outdoor media. Here's today's docket!Everest season comes to a close with multiple FKT attempts. (05:39)Pickleball Corner returns because campgrounds are now building pickleball courts. Colin will offer his opinion after the blood stops gushing from his eyes. (12:15)Is our outdoor media scene healthy? Colin and Doug take stock of the health of outdoor print, digital, and podcasts. (19:06)Lastly...2025-05-2847 minOpen Container: Outdoor culture as a free flowing conversationMyths Of The American WestToday Doug opens the container with author Betsy Gaines Quammen.Doug begins the episode reflecting on his first experience moving to the western US where the natural beauty of the outdoors was overwhelming and he encountered an overarching sentiment of distrust and anger towards himself as a newcomer as well as the government authority who was employing him. That same mentality has persisted and is playing a role in the current effort to sell off our public lands.Doug is then joined by Betsy Gaines Quammen who has written multiple books on the culture of...2025-05-271h 10Open Container: Outdoor culture as a free flowing conversationThe Desert Will Crack You Open: Finding The Lost VoiceToday Doug opens the container with Greta Morgan.The open of today's episode focuses on the final days of Doug's father and how in his grief it was nature that spoke to and comforted him.Doug is then joined by musician Greta Morgan who's new book, The Lost Voice, details her journey of losing her singing voice due to a combination of spasmodic dysphonia and long Covid and the journey of discovery that then unfolded for her in the wilderness. Thanks for listening! Open Container is a production of Rock Fight, LLC. 2025-05-2056 minThe Rock Fight: Outdoor Industry & Adventure Sports CommentaryThe 2025 Outdoor Town Draft!Why make a list of the best outdoor towns when you can draft them instead?!Today on the show Colin is joined by outdoor author and journalist, Shawnté Salabert, and the host of Open Container, Doug Schnitzspahn to draft the best outdoor towns in the US!Round by round they'll draft outdoorsy locales from all across the United States. In the end they'll each have a list for you the listener to vote on and determine who has the best team of outdoor towns for 2025! (Voting will begin on Monday May 19th on www.rockfight.c...2025-05-161h 17Open Container: Outdoor culture as a free flowing conversationThe Crucible Where We’re TestedToday Doug opens the container with David Mykel.In his open, Doug talks about fear. The way it arrives, has a tendency to stick around and how a clear head can go a long way in scary situations.Doug is then joined by performance psychologist David Mykel. Through their conversation, Doug and David discuss the intricate relationship between fear and the exhilaration that comes from the wild. They talk about how going outside can foster a sense of vitality and authenticity that is often missing in everyday life. David also recounts his journey...2025-05-131h 04Open Container: Outdoor culture as a free flowing conversationWalking The Path: What Adventure And Cancer Can Teach UsToday Doug opens the container with adventurer Eric Larsen.Doug begins the show by sharing how his life was shaped by his cancer diagnosis in the fall of 2024. A diagnosis that has not only reshaped his perspective on life but also deepened his appreciation for our beautiful planet.Doug is then joined by polar adventurer (not explorer) Eric Larson, who has also battled cancer. Eric's extensive travels in some of the planet’s most remote regions provide a unique lens through which he is better able to examine resilience and the healing power of nature. ...2025-05-061h 02Open Container: Outdoor culture as a free flowing conversationWhen In Doubt, Trust The StoryToday Doug opens the container with Mountain Gazette's Mike Rogge.Doug opens the show by talking about the historical role of storytelling. He points out that storytelling is not merely a form of communication but a fundamental aspect of human evolution and something that allows us to connect with one another and understand our place in the cosmos. Storytelling is also a cornerstone of our outdoor community; something that evokes genuine engagement and reflection among its participants.Doug is then joined by Mike Rogge, the owner of Mountain Gazette. Doug & Mike reflect on the modern...2025-04-291h 00Open Container: Outdoor culture as a free flowing conversationThe Highs, the Lows, and the WTFs of Outdoor PRToday Doug opens the container with outdoor PR pioneer, Chris Goddard.Doug opens the show talking about outdoor public relations. He highlights the intricate dynamics between outdoor brands and PR as a mechanism that helps to create their success. By sharing his own personal experiences as a working journalist in the outdoor industry, Doug describes how PR is inextricably tied to the outdoor industry.Doug is then joined by Chris Goddard, a luminary in the industry, who elucidates the essential role of public relations in advocating not only for brands but for the broader outdoor...2025-04-2256 minThe Rock Fight: Outdoor Industry & Adventure Sports CommentaryWhere Do National Shows Fit Into A Small Show World? The Functional Fabric Fair Reaction Pod! Plus: RIP Bob WoodwardToday Colin reflects on this past week when he and Producer Dave attended Functional Fabric Fair in Portland (Oregon) and takes a deeper look at what National Trade Shows should do in a world where the smaller shows are so effective.Then Colin is joined by Producer Dave and outdoor journalist and host of Open Container Doug Schnitzspahn to reflect back on the role Bob Woodward played setting the tone for the Outdoor Industry. RIP Woody.Remembering Rob Coppolillo. Check out hundreds of wildly cool products by visiting and shopping at Garage Grown...2025-04-1824 minOpen Container: Outdoor culture as a free flowing conversationCompete Like You Mean It, Laugh Like You Love ItToday Doug opens the container with Billy Demong.Doug opens todays show by talking about participating in competitive sports as a kid and the transformation of embracing outdoor pursuits that were free of competitive pressures. Along the way he realized that it's ok to do competitive events in the outdoors and also have fun while doing them.Doug is then joined by Billy Demong, an esteemed Olympian and gold medal winner in Nordic combined, who talks about the balance between competition and enjoyment in outdoor sports. Doug and Billy also delve into the significance of...2025-04-1557 minOpen Container: Outdoor culture as a free flowing conversationHow Can We Experience Re-Enchantment?Today Doug opens the container with author Brooke Williams.The episode opens with Doug exploring dreams, the supernatural and how science plays into different human experiences that are often hard to explain. Then to get a deeper understanding of human consciousness, Doug is joined by author Brooke Williams. Together they explore the concept of re-enchantment, a notion that seeks to reconnect us with the natural world and the enchantment it holds, particularly through experiences in the wilderness. Brooke articulates his belief that our dreams, especially those experienced while immersed in nature, can serve as a...2025-04-0852 minOpen Container: Outdoor culture as a free flowing conversationConservation: It's The Most American ThingToday Doug opens the container with journalist Rachelle Schrute.Doug starts the episode by recounting his personal journey and experiences in Montana, a state rich in both natural beauty and a communal spirit. A place that for Doug was not only about the incredible landscape but also the warmth and generosity of the locals who helped him when he was just getting his life started.Doug is then joined by conservationist, hunter, angler, and Montanan, Rachelle Schrute. Rachelle and Doug discuss the imperative of conservation, with Rachelle articulating her perspective as both a...2025-04-0159 minOpen Container: Outdoor culture as a free flowing conversationA Hipster, A Hacker, A Hustler: Making Things That WorkToday Doug opens the container with GG Edwards, the CEO and founder of Gnara.Doug opens the show highlighting how the outdoor industry was built on the back of solving problems for those looking to go outside. He also details how the industry attracts entrepreneurial individuals looking for ways to blend a career with outdoor pursuits. This mindset is what has allowed the outdoor industry to become what it is today.Doug is then joined by Gnara founder Georgia Grace (GG) Edwards and the conversation goes into the broader implications of inclusivity within the outdoor...2025-03-251h 03Open Container: Outdoor culture as a free flowing conversationLessons Of Zen From The Natural WorldToday Doug opens the container with author and outdoor journalist Katie Arnold.This episode of Open Container looks at the connection between Zen philosophy and heading outside. Doug opens the show recounting the lessons he learned while backpacking 30 miles from the Pacific Ocean to the oldest Japanese monastery in the US. The lessons he learned along the way helped to remind him of some basic tenants in times of stress: Go outside. See things. And see the world that sees you.Doug is then joined by author and Zen teacher, Katie Arnold. Katie's new book...2025-03-1858 minOpen Container: Outdoor culture as a free flowing conversationFinding The Heart Of WildernessToday Doug opens the container with author Jonathan Klein.Doug opens the show talking about how he discovered wilderness in his youth and how that lead him to meet Jonathan Klein. Jonathan had an extensive career, spending three decades working for Montana's forest service. After retiring Jonathan continued his pursuit of wilderness by embarking on a 700-mile solo canoe from Saskatchewan to Hudson Bay. That journey was chronicled in his book: Back to the Trees & Caves.Together Doug and Jonathan talk about their relationships to wilderness and our collective responsibility to preserve the...2025-03-1149 minOpen Container: Outdoor culture as a free flowing conversationOutdoor Storytelling Will Never DieToday Doug opens the container with writer, photographer, and editor Stephen Casimiro.Doug starts the show by recounting his earliest experiences with outdoor magazines and how those experiences fueled a career writing about the outdoors. He reflects on the importance of storytelling for those who choose to spend time in nature and how moves like the recent layoffs by Outside magazine diminishes the opportunity for many to discover the magic of the outdoors.Doug is then joined by Stephen Casimiro, founder and editor of Adventure Journal. Stephen talks about the evolving landscape of storytelling within...2025-03-041h 04Open Container: Outdoor culture as a free flowing conversationLessons From A Life Of InnovationToday Doug opens the container with Danica & Mike Carey of Seirus Innovation.Doug begins the episode by reflecting on the need for innovation within the outdoor and ski industries. He talks about his 25 years of working within those industries during which he has observed how the outdoors is adept at prioritizing creativity and problem-solving over mere profit maximization. Doug is then joined by Mike and Danica Carey of Seirus Innovation, who talk about the significance of fostering an inclusive culture that welcomes diversity, recognizing that a broad spectrum of perspectives can lead to greater creativity...2025-02-2544 minThe Rock Fight: Outdoor Industry & Adventure Sports CommentaryThe Outdoor Market Alliance Media Event Recap!Today Colin is joined by outdoor journalist and host of Open Container, Doug Schnitzspahn to talk about what they saw this week at the Outdoor Market Alliance Media Event.They recount their experiences at the show, how it compares to larger national events, and emphasize how the format allows PR Agencies and those in outdoor media to engage with brands in a focused manner. They also talk about how the event could benefit from seeking out smaller brands to attend as well as how the current threat to our public lands are present even at...2025-02-2127 minOpen Container: Outdoor culture as a free flowing conversationCreating Art In Utah's DesertToday Doug heads to the deserts of Utah to open the container with artist Cody Chamberlain.Doug starts the episode by diving into the significance of the wilderness as a source of inspiration and creativity, emphasizing that the desert offers a unique perspective that can rejuvenate our minds and spirits. He then speaks with Cody Chamberlain, an accomplished artist with deep roots in Utah's landscapes. Cody shares insights on how his lifelong engagement with the natural world informs his artistic practice and fosters a commitment to environmental stewardship. Doug and Cody explore the...2025-02-1845 minOpen Container: Outdoor culture as a free flowing conversationSearching Everywhere For Awe (And Finding It In Michigan?)Today Doug opens the container in search of awe and finds it with Stacy Bare.Moments of awe transcend mere experiences. They serve as pivotal junctures in our personal narratives, fostering healing and a deeper understanding of our existence. And while the outdoors is a source for awe inspiring moments, awe can also be found everywhere.Today's guest is Stacy Bare, who has dedicated his life to harnessing the therapeutic power of awe, particularly for veterans and individuals grappling with trauma. Our conversation underscores the importance of cultivating awe in our daily lives and encourages...2025-02-1137 minOpen Container: Outdoor culture as a free flowing conversationThey're Fixin' To Steal Your Land!Today Doug opens the container to explore the new world of outdoor politics with Caroline Gleich.Doug opens the show talking about the ongoing struggle to protect public lands from privatization and the critical need for increased political engagement among outdoor enthusiasts. He also delves into the contemporary implications of such efforts, particularly highlighted by the recent bid by certain factions to diminish public land protections. Then Doug sits down with Caroline Gleich, a professional ski mountaineer and environmental advocate, who underscores the importance of authentic representation in politics, particularly from individuals who are deeply...2025-02-0442 minOpen Container: Outdoor culture as a free flowing conversationTransforming The Conservation ConversationToday Doug opens the container with Chad Brown to discuss changing the narrative around conservation.Filmmaker Chad Brown is a passionate advocate for environmental justice and founder of the nonprofit Love Is King. During this conversation he discusses the intersection of conservation and social justice, emphasizing that true conservation must recognize the sacredness of land and its cultural significance. Chad highlights the importance of diverse voices in the conservation movement, particularly those of BIPOC leaders who have historically been marginalized. He shares insights from his latest film, Resilience Rising: Echoes of Owhyee Canyonlands, which captures...2025-01-2857 minOpen Container: Outdoor culture as a free flowing conversationWhy We Need A National Office Of Outdoor RecreationToday Doug opens the container with Luis Benitez to discuss the need for a National Office of Recreation.The rise in outdoor recreation has always been a part of the American experience, with transcendentalists like Emerson and Thoreau heading to the woods for enlightenment, down to current day secularists just wanting to get away from work. The indigenous people of this continent whose lands were taken and occupied had a deep connection to these spaces and still do.Luis joins the show to discuss the critical role of outdoor recreation departments in advocating for the...2025-01-2152 min