#033 Iditarod Explained: The State of the Last Great Race - Robert Forto

What does the Iditarod sled-dog race look like in 2026—and where is it headed?In this episode of The State I Am In, Manny sits down with longtime musher, media voice, and publisher Robert Forto to explore the evolving world of dog mushing. From the ceremonial start in Anchorage to the realities of running a kennel in Alaska, this conversation goes far beyond the race itself.They dive into the rising costs of competing, declining participation numbers, sponsorship challenges, and the ever-present influence of controversy surrounding the sport. Robert also shares his unique journey—from discovering mushing through a Disney movie to building a life, business, and media platform around it.At its core, this episode asks a bigger question: Can the Iditarod preserve its tradition while adapting to a changing world?What You’ll Hear in This Episode The emotional impact of experiencing the Iditarod start in person  Robert Forto’s journey into mushing—and why it became his identity  The difference between the ceremonial start and the real race in Willow  Why the number of racers has dropped dramatically over the years  The true cost of running a competitive dog sled team  The role of sponsorships—and why many have pulled out  The new expedition class and why it’s controversial  How media, podcasting, and storytelling are shaping the sport  The impact of animal rights activism on public perception  What makes mushers different: grit, perseverance, and mindset  Why the Iditarod may be at a crossroads similar to other major sports Key Takeaways The Iditarod is more than a race—it’s a lifestyle and identity for those involved  Financial barriers are one of the biggest threats to the sport’s future  Innovation (like the expedition class) may be necessary—but not universally accepted  Media and storytelling play a critical role in keeping the sport alive  Despite challenges, the passion within the mushing community remains strong About the GuestRobert Forto is a longtime dog musher, podcast host, and publisher of Mushing Magazine. With over 30 years in the sport, he brings a rare combination of hands-on experience and media insight. He also teaches dog mushing at the college level at the University of Alaska Anchorage—one of the only instructors in the country to do so.🔗 Where to Find Robert Website:www.mushing.com Podcast: The Burled Arch Facebook, Instagram, TikTok: @RobertFortoShoot me a text, what do you think?