Episode 188 – Making Yoga More Accessible with Erwin Velasquez
Erwin Velasquez is a bilingual yoga teacher and a personal trainer. Originally from Bogata, Columbia, Erwin made his way out to Jackson in 2006. A few years ago he decided to change the path his life was headed by quitting his job to focus on his health. This change led him to Yoga. He is now serving the Spanish speaking community in Jackson by helping make their fitness goals more attainable.
In this episode, Erwin shares what it was like growing up in Columbia and why he left to come out to Wyoming. He talks about the obstacles he had to overcome when it came to his health and well being. Ewin goes into discussing the Spanish speaking community of Jackson and how classes like his are helping improve the overall health of our community. Stephan and Erwin then talk about Teton Trail Runner and some of their favorite hiking and running spots.
Read MoreEpisode 177 – Skating Through Life with Akop Manoukian
Akop is a Professional Figure Skater, coach, husband, father, performer, actor, stunt double in Will Farrell’s Blades of Glory, and the President/CEO and Executive Director of the Grand Teton Skating Association. Originally from Armenia, Akop has traveled and performed with some of the best figure skaters in our time. After performing all over the world, Akop made Jackson his home in 1999.
Read MoreEpisode 175 – 534 Miles in 31 Days with Lisa Smith-Batchen
Lisa Smith-Batchen is an ultra runner, Ironman competitor, personal coach, mom, mentor, wife, and sister. Her athletic achievements have been documented in The NY Times, The LA Times, The Washington Post, Sports Illustrated for Women, ESPN Magazine, Outside Magazine, and many more. After the tragic events of 9/11, Lisa and her family decided to leave New Jersey and move to where they have always wanted to live, Jackson Hole.
In this episode, Lisa gets a little more personal with Stephan and talks about her latest fitness journey. In October of 2021, Lisa’s sister Julie passed away of colon cancer.
Read MoreEpisode 164 – Investing In Our Nonprofits with Laurie Andrews of the Community Foundation
Laurie helped run the Jackson Hole Land Trust for 15 years and now she is the president of the Community Foundation of Jackson Hole. She is also an avid climber, ultra runner, and a lover of dogs.
In this episode, Laurie shares how her tenure at the Nature Conservancy brought her out to the Valley. She talks about the work she did with the Jackson Hole Land Trust and how it led her to her current role at the Community Foundation. Laurie describes what it was like to take on such a big position just as the pandemic was forcing closures and safety measures. She goes into the impact that climbing and outdoor recreation have had on her life and how she is driven to get out into nature to re-energize. Stephan and Laurie also discuss the importance of stepping up to support the community and what makes the Community Foundation of Jackson Hole truly unique.
Read MoreEpisode 161 – Never Stop Moving Forward with Jay Petervary
Everything Jay does revolves around cycling. He is an ultra-endurance cyclist, ambassador, guide, teacher, speaker, race director, and sponsored athlete.
In this episode, Jay shares why he left a lucrative career in the city to move out west. He talks about the moment his life changed when he found his passion and reason for living. He explains the intense preparation and dedication that goes into doing an endurance ride. Jay goes into the work he does for the cycling community and why he doesn’t want to just be labeled a professional athlete. Stephan and Jay also talk about the importance of mentorship and how it can be rewarding on both sides.