An Epic Canoe Journey with Dana Starkell: From Childhood Adventures to Record-Breaking Feats

Send us Fan MailDo not attempt the feats described in this podcast unless with a trained guide or professional. Always practice safety on the water. Find paddlecraft info on the US Coast Guard's website, hereAdventurer Dana Starkell shares his awe-inspiring journey, starting from his unique upbringing with an eccentric father who turned ordinary days into extraordinary adventures. Listen as Dana relives his vivid childhood memories of rescuing crows and exploring forests, which ignited his lifelong passion for nature and animals. Dana takes us through the monumental canoe trip he undertook with his father, which doubled the existing world record. Dana emphasized the value of shared experiences over mere records. From navigating ice-laden rivers to crossing Lake Winnipeg, Dana’s story is a testament to mental stamina and the psychological advantages of focusing on the ultimate goal. Discover the critical safety measures they took, like maintaining water supplies and dealing with food scarcity, and how these adventures shaped Dana's unrelenting spirit.Finally, explore Dana's multifaceted life beyond canoeing as he recounts his journey as a musician and his eventual move to the Quad Cities. Learn how he turned his father's travel diaries into the best-selling book "Paddle to the Amazon," and how a chance connection during a book tour led him to a new chapter in his life. Dive into the charm of the Quad Cities, from its extensive bike trails to community events like FloatZilla, and get inspired by Dana’s continuous efforts to foster community spirit and record-breaking participation.Find the Paddle to the Amazon book hereWatch the Paddle to the Amazon documentary hereQC, That's Where is a podcast powered by Visit Quad Cities. Through the people, partnerships, and personalities woven throughout the Quad Cities region, you'll meet real Quad Citizens and hear the untold stories of the region.Follow Visit Quad Cities on social media and never miss an episode of #QCThatsWhere.FacebookInstagramLinkedInX