John is a father, husband, inventor, entrepreneur, former ski patrolman, avalanche expert, and an artist.
In this episode, John talks about how he made his way out to Jackson from New York over 60 years ago. He shares how his father encouraged his inventive and entrepreneurial spirit which led him to start many impactful companies and create numerous life-changing inventions. John goes into how he started a local rafting company, outdoor retail company, and a research organization, all while being a ski patrolman at JHMR. John also discusses with Stephan how he transitioned from operating Simms Fishing Products into becoming an artist.
Pam is a long-time resident, a mom, a wife, a former school bus driver and she is the Owner and Founder of Copperdot Leather Goods.
In this episode, Pam shares how she packed up her car 30 years ago and left Detroit in hopes of landing a career-track job in Jackson. She talks about what it was like to be a school bus driver and how it was one of the best jobs she has ever had. Pam then goes into how the creation of one leather bag led to building a successful locally crafted brand. Stephan and Pam also talk about the importance of leaning into positive feedback and how starting a business can be a lonely road.
Emma recently joined the Grand Teton Music Festival as Executive Director in September 2020 after serving as General Manager of the Kansas City Symphony for nearly a decade. A lifelong musician, she previously held positions with the Alabama Symphony, Omaha Symphony, and the Humanities Division at the University of Chicago.
Nick and Alex are the founders and partners of Stept Studios. Stept is a creative and production company based in Jackson Hole and Los Angeles. They are known for their eye-catching and engaging advertising and documentaries.
Gordy is a freelance journalist based in Jackson. His work can be found in publications such as Outside Magazine, Men’s Journal, Bloomberg Businessweek, WIRED, and SKI. He is also the author of the forthcoming book, “100 Slopes of a Lifetime” which is being published by National Geographic and is due out in October.
Erika is the Founder & CEO of the Erika Film Foundation, Black Bicycle Entertainment, and Olde & New. Olde & New is a recipe website that does both modern and traditional takes on comfort food. Erika is originally from our neighbor to the north, but after falling in love on vacation years ago, she decided to make Jackson her full-time home.
Natalia is Chairwoman of the Teton County Board of County Commissioners, she also works as Artistic Director of Off Square Theatre Company. Over the past decade, Natalia has made a huge impact in the Jackson arts community as well as our political landscape. Natalia is helping Wyoming stay true to its motto as the Equality State.
Andy is a professional photographer, former mountain guide, entrepreneur, and creator of Wild Common. Wild Common is a new additive-free tequila and mezcal spirit line which is committed to transparency and sustainability. In this episode, Andy talks about how a ski trip to Jackson changed the course of his path in life. Andy shares how a few breaks helped turn a passion for adventure photography into a full-time career. He also goes into detail about why he turned his focus to creating a line artesenal tequila and mezcal. Stephan and Andy also discuss the importance of sustainability, helping small communities, and fair trade certification.
In this episode, Mark talks about how he went from living and working around the globe to falling in love and settling down in Driggs ID. He shares some behind the scenes stories of what went into documenting the epic journeys of heading up Mount Everest and summiting Gamlang Razi in Myanmar. Stephan and Mark also discuss the importance of community, which is not only where you live, but who you adventure with.
In this episode, Zahan talks about how he made his way out to the Tetons after growing up in Switzerland. He shares his path of going from being a mechanic to teaching, to guiding to founding The Samsara Experience. Stephan and Zahan also discuss the importance of having a connection with nature and raising kids in Jackson.