Shows
Climbing Business Journal PodcastsHiring Is Sacred – Jonathan BrandtToday on the Climbing Business Journal Podcast, host John Burgman meets with Jonathan Brandt. Jonathan is one of the co-founders of a new climbing gym in Holland, Michigan, called Shift. It's a 12,000-square-foot, bouldering-focused facility, and by Jonathan's own admission, there aren't a lot of bells and whistles in the gym, meaning there aren't a ton of fancy accouterments or amenities that are too far afield from climbing. Inside the space is primarily a bunch of really cool boulders and the community of staff and stoke that has developed around those blocks.
Jonathan has been in or...2025-07-251h 19
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
Climbing Business Journal PodcastsOnce a Climber, Always a Climber – Obe CarrionObe Carrion is the guest of this episode of the Climbing Business Journal podcast, hosted by John Burgman. Obe has long been one of the biggest names in the game as a pro climber. Over the years, he has worked with multiple brands, and he's been in multiple climbing films, including the 1998’s Free Hueco! and 1999’s Rampage. He has been a coach, a mentor, and through all of the evolutions he has remained a force of nature in the climbing industry. John and Obe talk about Obe’s career and psych in climbing: how psych is never a consta...2025-06-261h 32Climbing Business Journal PodcastsOnce a Climber, Always a Climber – Obe CarrionObe Carrion is the guest of this episode of the Climbing Business Journal podcast, hosted by John Burgman. Obe has long been one of the biggest names in the game as a pro climber. Over the years, he has worked with multiple brands, and he's been in multiple climbing films, including the 1998’s Free Hueco! and 1999’s Rampage. He has been a coach, a mentor, and through all of the evolutions he has remained a force of nature in the climbing industry. John and Obe talk about Obe’s career and psych in climbing: how psych is never a consta...2025-06-261h 32
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
Climbing Business Journal PodcastsWhy the Midwest Is a Great Place for a Climbing Gym – Jonathan LandisOn this episode of the CBJ podcast, host John Burgman and Jonathan Landis, the CEO of Greater Heights, talk about the winding path from an idea to the construction and, finally, the grand opening of a new climbing gym. Greater Heights opened in early December 2024 in Fitchburg, Wisconsin—which is right around Madison—and has ropes, boulders and auto belays. The climbing walls at the gym are from Rockwerx, the flooring is from Asana, and Rock Gym Pro is the management software.
John and Jonathan chat all about the origin of Greater Heights and the origin of Jona...2025-04-181h 04Climbing Business Journal PodcastsWhy the Midwest Is a Great Place for a Climbing Gym – Jonathan LandisOn this episode of the CBJ podcast, host John Burgman and Jonathan Landis, the CEO of Greater Heights, talk about the winding path from an idea to the construction and, finally, the grand opening of a new climbing gym. Greater Heights opened in early December 2024 in Fitchburg, Wisconsin—which is right around Madison—and has ropes, boulders and auto belays. The climbing walls at the gym are from Rockwerx, the flooring is from Asana, and Rock Gym Pro is the management software.
John and Jonathan chat all about the origin of Greater Heights and the origin of Jona...2025-04-181h 04
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
Climbing Business Journal PodcastsSupporting the New Climber's Journey – Megan CheekOn this episode of the Climbing Business Journal podcast, host John Burgman is joined by Megan Cheek. Megan is the Digital Marketing Manager and Content Strategist for Climbing Collective, which includes the Inner Peaks gyms in North Carolina, Philadelphia Rock Gyms in Pennsylvania, and Hudson Boulders in New York. They talk about what the Climbing Collective is and how several different gyms and gym brands operate within it. From there, they chat about Megan's role as a content strategist and what it means to create content for gyms these days.
John and Megan pinpoint the new Inner...2025-03-211h 11Climbing Business Journal PodcastsSupporting the New Climber's Journey – Megan CheekOn this episode of the Climbing Business Journal podcast, host John Burgman is joined by Megan Cheek. Megan is the Digital Marketing Manager and Content Strategist for Climbing Collective, which includes the Inner Peaks gyms in North Carolina, Philadelphia Rock Gyms in Pennsylvania, and Hudson Boulders in New York. They talk about what the Climbing Collective is and how several different gyms and gym brands operate within it. From there, they chat about Megan's role as a content strategist and what it means to create content for gyms these days.
John and Megan pinpoint the new Inner...2025-03-211h 11
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
Climbing Business Journal PodcastsTrends, Mentorship, Communication, and Gym Management – Josh HaynesWelcome back to the Climbing Business Journal podcast. Today, host John Burgman chats with Josh Haynes. Josh first made waves in the industry as an elite-level climber, crushing top-shelf grades like V14s, 514b's, 514c's. But he also worked as a routesetter, which he talks about in this episode, and he had various staff roles at several different gyms. Most recently, he was hired as the new manager of Uplift Climbing in Shoreline, Washington. John and Josh talk about what Josh has gathered from those myriad experiences and how he plans to apply his insights to the managerial role...2024-12-141h 47Climbing Business Journal PodcastsTrends, Mentorship, Communication, and Gym Management – Josh HaynesWelcome back to the Climbing Business Journal podcast. Today, host John Burgman chats with Josh Haynes. Josh first made waves in the industry as an elite-level climber, crushing top-shelf grades like V14s, 514b's, 514c's. But he also worked as a routesetter, which he talks about in this episode, and he had various staff roles at several different gyms. Most recently, he was hired as the new manager of Uplift Climbing in Shoreline, Washington. John and Josh talk about what Josh has gathered from those myriad experiences and how he plans to apply his insights to the managerial role...2024-12-141h 47
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
Climbing Business Journal PodcastsMaking the Great Leap in Business – Francis LaroseToday's guest is the founder and CEO of OnSite, Francis Larose. OnSite is based in Montreal, Quebec, and made history this past summer when it became likely the first North America-based wall manufacturer to complete a commercial climbing gym project in Europe. OnSite making the leap from the North American market to the European market is the reverse of what typically happens; much more common has been European builders pursuing gym projects in North America. That accomplishment for OnSite is a focal point of today’s episode, but Francis and host John Burgman cover a lot of other ground to...2024-11-151h 17Climbing Business Journal PodcastsMaking the Great Leap in Business – Francis LaroseToday's guest is the founder and CEO of OnSite, Francis Larose. OnSite is based in Montreal, Quebec, and made history this past summer when it became likely the first North America-based wall manufacturer to complete a commercial climbing gym project in Europe. OnSite making the leap from the North American market to the European market is the reverse of what typically happens; much more common has been European builders pursuing gym projects in North America. That accomplishment for OnSite is a focal point of today’s episode, but Francis and host John Burgman cover a lot of other ground to...2024-11-151h 17
Climbing Business Journal PodcastsHow To Be an Entrepreneur – Andrew PotterOn today's episode of the CBJ Podcast, host John Burgman and guest Andrew Potter chat about gym startups, software startups, market analysis and much more in between. Andrew is the founder of the RoKC climbing gyms as well as the founder of the software company Approach. In starting both a gym and a gym management technology company, he's had a fascinating journey as an entrepreneur in the climbing industry. He’s also gained experience and insights on how to get a business idea off the ground, how to stay tenacious in turning an idea into a reality, and how to...2024-10-211h 17Climbing Business Journal PodcastsHow To Be an Entrepreneur – Andrew PotterOn today's episode of the CBJ Podcast, host John Burgman and guest Andrew Potter chat about gym startups, software startups, market analysis and much more in between. Andrew is the founder of the RoKC climbing gyms as well as the founder of the software company Approach. In starting both a gym and a gym management technology company, he's had a fascinating journey as an entrepreneur in the climbing industry. He’s also gained experience and insights on how to get a business idea off the ground, how to stay tenacious in turning an idea into a reality, and how to...2024-10-211h 17
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
Climbing Business Journal PodcastsLet’s Talk About 24-Hour Access – Lindsay RunneOn this episode of the Climbing Business Journal podcast, host John Burgman meets with Climbing Roots owner Lindsay Runne. Climbing Roots' grand opening date is still a little up in the air, but the gym is getting ready to open its doors. During their conversation, John and Lindsay discuss some of the logistics of opening a new gym, what the whole process has been like for Lindsay, and what has gone into getting a gym ready to open. They also dive into Lindsay's decision to offer 24-hour access at Climbing Roots, an amenity that a number of other gyms...2024-09-2055 minClimbing Business Journal PodcastsLet’s Talk About 24-Hour Access – Lindsay RunneOn this episode of the Climbing Business Journal podcast, host John Burgman meets with Climbing Roots owner Lindsay Runne. Climbing Roots' grand opening date is still a little up in the air, but the gym is getting ready to open its doors. During their conversation, John and Lindsay discuss some of the logistics of opening a new gym, what the whole process has been like for Lindsay, and what has gone into getting a gym ready to open. They also dive into Lindsay's decision to offer 24-hour access at Climbing Roots, an amenity that a number of other gyms...2024-09-2055 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
Climbing Business Journal Podcasts101 Climbing Games and Activities – Hailey CaissieOn this episode of the Climbing Business Journal Podcast, host John Burgman speaks with Hailey Caissie. Hailey is the Programs Manager at The Crag in Tennessee, and she is also the author of 101 Climbing Games and Activities. So, for anyone who struggles to think of games to play in youth programs or even adult programs, this book may be an interesting resource. It’s a tool that could be helpful to coaches, parents, youth athletes, managers, and simply anyone who climbs. John and Hailey discuss the writing process a bit and how the book came to be, and Hailey sh...2024-08-231h 04Climbing Business Journal Podcasts101 Climbing Games and Activities – Hailey CaissieOn this episode of the Climbing Business Journal Podcast, host John Burgman speaks with Hailey Caissie. Hailey is the Programs Manager at The Crag in Tennessee, and she is also the author of 101 Climbing Games and Activities. So, for anyone who struggles to think of games to play in youth programs or even adult programs, this book may be an interesting resource. It’s a tool that could be helpful to coaches, parents, youth athletes, managers, and simply anyone who climbs. John and Hailey discuss the writing process a bit and how the book came to be, and Hailey sh...2024-08-231h 04
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