EXPLORER with Jonathan Nathaniel Hayes

Libby Riddles—first woman to win the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race—joins Explorer to share the story behind the storm, the dogs, and the decisions that made history.

Join co-director and two time "Teacher on the trail" Jim Deprez as we discuss iditarod's EDU program designed to use the race as teaching modules for the classroom. Follow Iditarod Edu on Facebook or Instagram. You can reach Jim at [email protected] Dont forget to like, subscribe and share the podcast with a friend- you can follow us at Mush Maine on the web, YouTube, Instagram or Facebook! Or email the host @ [email protected]

Cohost of the wildly successful "The Sporting Chance Podcast," noted austringer and outdoorsman, Casey Everett has a conversation with Jonathan about hounds, hawking, Lizard People and liberty. Check it out.

After 2 years of silence, Brent Sass gives us this exclusive look into his story from his perspective. Brent is one of the most accomplished long-distance sled dog mushers of his generation — a three-time 1,000 mile Yukon Quest champion and winner of the 1,000 mile 50th Iditarod. But in 2023 and 2024, serious allegations of sexual misconduct led to his disqualification from the Iditarod and his withdrawal from public life. No criminal charges were filed, and Sass has denied the allegations. Until now, he has not spoken publicly at length about this chapter of his life. In this exclusive, long-form conversation, Brent sits down for the first time to share his perspective — not only on the controversy, but on the journey that brought him from cabin life in Alaska to the pinnacle of endurance racing, and through one of the most difficult seasons of his life. This is not a courtroom. It is a conversation. We discuss triumph, isolation, public judgment, resilience, and what legacy truly means when the trail turns harsh. Listener discretion advised: this episode references allegations of sexual misconduct.

After two years, Brent breaks his silence and answers the questions we all want addressed. Brent is one of the most accomplished long-distance sled dog mushers of his generation — a three-time 1,000 mile Yukon Quest champion and winner of the 50th Iditarod. But in 2023 and 2024, serious allegations of sexual misconduct led to his disqualification from the Iditarod and his withdrawal from public life. No criminal charges were ever filed, and Sass has denied the allegations. Until now, he has not spoken publicly at length about this chapter of his life. In this exclusive, long-form conversation, Brent sits down for the first time to share his perspective — not only on the controversy, but on the journey that brought him from off-grid cabin life in Alaska to the pinnacle of endurance racing, and through one of the most difficult seasons of his life. This is not a courtroom. It is a conversation. We discuss triumph, isolation, public judgment, resilience, and what legacy truly means when the trail turns harsh. Listener discretion advised: this episode references allegations of sexual misconduct.

Jonathan Nathaniel Hayes gives the keynote address at the annual Regional Chamber of Commerce Banquet here in Maine. The talk centered on the Centennial Seppala Expedition and the subsequent honoring of the breed as the Maine State Dog.

One Hundred Winters: Retracing the Great Race Against Death You can purchase your hardcopy on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/One-Hundred-Winters-Retracing-Against/dp/B0FP4RRBRG/ref=sr_1_1?crid=35G9COMB4ZNJC&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.T31OZAvFqR36Kg2vZZOn6PjJegqtfvr2Mf4X4el3Wa3GjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.mMHEwu4mF6qqu5cj9aoKU5W7ZqzLHXeONF6xKs6tLfE&dib_tag=se&keywords=one+hundred+winters+jonathan+hayes+race&qid=1758803871&sprefix=one+hundred+winters+jonathan+hayes+rac%2Caps%2C144&sr=8-1 Or order an Autographed copy at https://mushmaine.com/product/one-hundred-winters-book-autographed/

One Hundred Winters: Retracing the Great Race Against Death Order your copy on Amazon today at: https://www.amazon.com/One-Hundred-Winters-Retracing-Against/dp/B0FP4RRBRG/ref=sr_1_1?crid=35G9COMB4ZNJC&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.T31OZAvFqR36Kg2vZZOn6PjJegqtfvr2Mf4X4el3Wa3GjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.mMHEwu4mF6qqu5cj9aoKU5W7ZqzLHXeONF6xKs6tLfE&dib_tag=se&keywords=one+hundred+winters+jonathan+hayes+race&qid=1758567410&sprefix=one+hundred+winters+jonathan+hayes+rac%2Caps%2C144&sr=8-1 Or order an autographed copy here: https://mushmaine.com/product/one-hundred-winters-book-autographed/

One Hundred Winters: Retracing the Great Race Against Death. Available in Hardcover and Paperback on Amazon at: https://www.amazon.com/One-Hundred-Winters-Retracing-Against/dp/B0FP4RRBRG/ref=sr_1_1?crid=35G9COMB4ZNJC&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.T31OZAvFqR36Kg2vZZOn6PjJegqtfvr2Mf4X4el3Wa3GjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.mMHEwu4mF6qqu5cj9aoKU5W7ZqzLHXeONF6xKs6tLfE&dib_tag=se&keywords=one+hundred+winters+jonathan+hayes+race&qid=1758194294&sprefix=one+hundred+winters+jonathan+hayes+rac%2Caps%2C144&sr=8-1# Or request an autographed copy at: https://mushmaine.com/product/one-hundred-winters-book-autographed/

ONE HUNDRED WINTERS: Retracing the Great Race against Death Available on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/One-Hundred-Winters-Retracing-Against/dp/B0FP4RRBRG/ref=sr_1_1?crid=35G9COMB4ZNJC&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.T31OZAvFqR36Kg2vZZOn6PjJegqtfvr2Mf4X4el3Wa3GjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.mMHEwu4mF6qqu5cj9aoKU5W7ZqzLHXeONF6xKs6tLfE&dib_tag=se&keywords=one+hundred+winters+jonathan+hayes+race&qid=1758113180&sprefix=one+hundred+winters+jonathan+hayes+rac%2Caps%2C144&sr=8-1 Or request an Autographed copy here: https://mushmaine.com/product/one-hundred-winters-book-autographed/

ONE HUNDRED WINTERS: Retracing the Great Race Against Death. Available on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/One-Hundred-Winters-Retracing-Against/dp/B0FP4RRBRG/ref=sr_1_1?crid=35G9COMB4ZNJC&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.T31OZAvFqR36Kg2vZZOn6PjJegqtfvr2Mf4X4el3Wa3GjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.mMHEwu4mF6qqu5cj9aoKU5W7ZqzLHXeONF6xKs6tLfE&dib_tag=se&keywords=one+hundred+winters+jonathan+hayes+race&qid=1757889249&sprefix=one+hundred+winters+jonathan+hayes+rac%2Caps%2C144&sr=8-1 Or request an AUTOGRAPHED COPY at: https://mushmaine.com/product/one-hundred-winters-book-autographed/

ONE HUNDRED WINTERS: Retracing the Great Race Against Death. Written by Jonathan Nathaniel Hayes. Illustrated by Caleb Gingras. Now available on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/One-Hundred-Winters-Retracing-Against/dp/B0FP4RRBRG/ref=sr_1_1?crid=35G9COMB4ZNJC&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.T31OZAvFqR36Kg2vZZOn6PjJegqtfvr2Mf4X4el3Wa3GjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.mMHEwu4mF6qqu5cj9aoKU5W7ZqzLHXeONF6xKs6tLfE&dib_tag=se&keywords=one+hundred+winters+jonathan+hayes+race&qid=1757685204&sprefix=one+hundred+winters+jonathan+hayes+rac%2Caps%2C144&sr=8-1 Or get an autographed copy here: https://mushmaine.com/product/one-hundred-winters-book-autographed/

One Hundred Winters: Retracing the Great Race Against Death. Autographed books available here: https://mushmaine.com/product/one-hundred-winters-book-autographed/ Now available on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/One-Hundred-Winters-Retracing-Against/dp/B0FP4RRBRG/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1KRBS3A0HKKP9&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.T31OZAvFqR36Kg2vZZOn6PjJegqtfvr2Mf4X4el3Wa3GjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.mMHEwu4mF6qqu5cj9aoKU5W7ZqzLHXeONF6xKs6tLfE&dib_tag=se&keywords=one+hundred+winters+jonathan+hayes+race&qid=1757600283&sprefix=%2Caps%2C145&sr=8-1

One Hundred Winters: Retracing The Great Race Against Death. Written by Jonathan Nathaniel Hayes Illustrated by Caleb Gingras Get an autographed copy here: https://mushmaine.com/product/one-hundred-winters-book-autographed/ Or purchase from Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/One-Hundred-Winters-Retracing-Against/dp/B0FP4RRBRG/ref=sr_1_1?crid=35G9COMB4ZNJC&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.T31OZAvFqR36Kg2vZZOn6PjJegqtfvr2Mf4X4el3Wa3GjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.mMHEwu4mF6qqu5cj9aoKU5W7ZqzLHXeONF6xKs6tLfE&dib_tag=se&keywords=one+hundred+winters+jonathan+hayes+race&qid=1757511444&sprefix=one+hundred+winters+jonathan+hayes+rac%2Caps%2C144&sr=8-1

ONE HUNDRED WINTERS: Retracing The Great Race Against Death Written by Jonathan Nathaniel Hayes Illustrated by Caleb Gingras Buy the Book here: https://www.amazon.com/One-Hundred-Winters-Retracing-Against/dp/B0FP4RRBRG/ref=sr_1_1?crid=DNJAW7I8ULVS&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.T31OZAvFqR36Kg2vZZOn6C566IXPhBk9sfVheUDJQP0e_r5AlsKfEhhb9UfuCGUlq9iENmFjp4MOCqCtnPHlBdKg9nYxzvQChvKFdUIgZBk.GUylz6nviBPwad_P4_yt9zrAJ-k8TGOXu0ms3cRJQkI&dib_tag=se&keywords=one+hundred+winters+hayes&qid=1757417259&sprefix=one+hundred+w%2Caps%2C183&sr=8-1 Or buy an autographed copy here: https://mushmaine.com/product/one-hundred-winters-book-autographed/

ONE HUNDRED WINTERS: Retracing the Great Race Against Death. Written by Jonathan Nathaniel Hayes Illustrated by Caleb Gingras Get your copy on Amazon today here: https://www.amazon.com/One-Hundred-Winters-Retracing-Against/dp/B0FP4RRBRG/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3I4O8D0FRMPP2&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.T31OZAvFqR36Kg2vZZOn6C566IXPhBk9sfVheUDJQP0XQJcq_oS4lRPdCHb6PMBSq9iENmFjp4MOCqCtnPHlBdNwpUlLn_so1lEQ3rcmMrc.48K4-CCFooOPEht5ji2EJz32-dCKyD04joOoOowL2fk&dib_tag=se&keywords=one+hundred+winters+hayes&qid=1757332771&sprefix=one+huyndred%2Caps%2C171&sr=8-1 Or reach out to us on the Mush Maine Website or social media to request an autographed copy

ONE HUNDRED WINTERS: Retracing the Great Race Against Death. Written by Jonathan Nathaniel Hayes. Illustrated by Caleb Gingras. NOW AVAILABLE on AMAZON! https://www.amazon.com/One-Hundred-Winters-Retracing-Against/dp/B0FP4RRBRG/ref=sr_1_1?crid=380ELJT8Q4027&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.T31OZAvFqR36Kg2vZZOn6C566IXPhBk9sfVheUDJQP0XQJcq_oS4lRPdCHb6PMBStoML7h9QlubPjxxGsn8rwtNwpUlLn_so1lEQ3rcmMrc.KUEOfJSWaysGifKXTsZpzUsDyAvleRqjboa2mjwUyUI&dib_tag=se&keywords=one+hundred+winters+hayes&qid=1757205127&sprefix=%2Caps%2C198&sr=8-1

ONE HUNDRED WINTERS: Retracing The Great Race Against Death. Buy your copy at https://www.amazon.com/One-Hundred-Winters-Retracing-Against/dp/B0FP4RRBRG/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1PGKA69CWKYD1&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.T31OZAvFqR36Kg2vZZOn6C566IXPhBk9sfVheUDJQP2C3ahH15fA2ClreExIvb_7MQbnBOmjRKCK503XwrBSm0RBkVyOtSC18KCIt8RyjRQ.w53l6r1lj0b_psKO1MghFmuLsH-6OI8sFd0P5sfvX7w&dib_tag=se&keywords=one+hundred+winters+hayes&qid=1757071664&sprefix=one+hundred+winters+hayes%2Caps%2C155&sr=8-1

ONE HUNDRED WINTERS: Retracing the Great Race Against Death. Written by Jonathan Nathaniel Hayes Illustrated by Caleb Gingras

Get your copy of "ONE HUNDRED WINTERS: Retracing the Great Race Against Death" on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/One-Hundred-Winters-Retracing-Against/dp/B0FP4RRBRG/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0 Or reach out to Mush Maine on Social Media to request your autographed copy

ONE HUNDRED WINTERS: Retracing the Great Race Against Death. Written by Jonathan Nathaniel Hayes Illustrated by Caleb Gingras

One Hundred Winter: Retracting the great Race Against Death. Available in hardcover, Paperback and eBook here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FP4RRBRG/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2RAVRW6MWBO9I&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.PgBvFvfN1IA-zc_t2oznX_jJegqtfvr2Mf4X4el3Wa3GjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.92ihNMZSR1T1BRi7ieBG6UV5FLcCFfKNy_tUUwjkft8&dib_tag=se&keywords=one+hundred+winters+hayes+jonathan&qid=1756488855&sprefix=one+hundred+winters+hayes+jonathan%2Caps%2C135&sr=8-1

ONE HUNDRED WINTERS: Retracing the Great Race Against Death Written by Jonathan Nathaniel Hayes Illustrated by Caleb Gingras

One Hundred Winter: Retracing the Great Race Against Death Written by Jonathan Nathaniel Hayes Illustrated by Caleb Gingras

Free Audio of the new Book, ONE HUNDRED WINTERS: Retracing the Great Race Against Death. Written by Jonathan Hayes Illustrated by Caleb Gingras

ONE HUNDRED WINTERS: Retracing The Great Race Of Death Written By Jonathan Nathaniel Hayes Illustrated by Jon Van Zyle Photography by Caleb Gingras

ONE HUNDRED WINTERS: Retracing The Great Race Against Death Written by Jonathan Nathaniel Hayes Illustrated by John Van Zyle Photography by Caleb Gingras

One Hundred Winters: Retracing the Great Race Against Death Written by Jonathan Nathaniel Hayes Illustrated by Jon Van Zyle Photography by Caleb Gingras

One Hundred Winters: Retracing the Great Race Against Death Written by Jonathan Nathaniel Hayes Illustrated by Jon Van Zyle Photography by Caleb Gingras

ONE HUNDRED WINTERS: Retracing the Great Race Against Death Written by Jonathan Nathaniel Hayes

Was Togo the greatest sled dog ever? Australian historian Jeff Hatwell discusses his new book, Togo of Alaska, The Life and Times of the Greatest Sled Dog. You can purchase a copy of the book here: https://www.amazon.com/Togo-Alaska-Life-Times-Greatest/dp/0646712438?source=ps-sl-shoppingads-lpcontext&ref_=fplfs&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER Do you enjoy our podcast? If so drop us a line to let us know where you are listening from at [email protected]

What more could you ask for? He may sound laid back, but Brandon Hunter is a SWAT and K9 Officer, Competition Kayak Fisherman, and Master Falconer. He has a killer Youtube Channel called Fins and Talons! Check it out. https://www.youtube.com/@FinsandTalons

When it comes to Adventure, Lara Kittleson has a positive outlook that is infectious. It is impossible to be around Lara and be in a bad mood. In this podcast we discuss her wanderlust, as well as the faith that drives her positive outlook on life. Check it out!

Summary In this engaging conversation, Robert Forto shares his journey into the world of sled dog mushing, his experiences living in Alaska's mushing capital, and his passion for the sport. He discusses the evolution of podcasting in the mushing community, the recent changes in the Iditarod race structure, and his role in teaching leadership through dog mushing. Robert also reflects on his acquisition of Mushing Magazine, the challenges of print media in a digital age, and his vision for the future of the magazine and the sport. Takeaways Robert Forto is a prominent figure in the mushing community, owning Mushing Magazine and running a dog training business. He started his journey in sled dog mushing in 1994 while attending college. Living in Willow, Alaska, offers a unique community of mushers and access to extensive trails. The Iditarod race has evolved, with recent changes sparking discussions about accessibility and competition. Podcasting has opened many doors for Robert, allowing him to connect with the mushing community. The recent announcement of an expedition class in the Iditarod has generated mixed reactions. Robert teaches leadership skills through dog mushing at the University of Alaska. He took a significant risk by acquiring Mushing Magazine, aiming to preserve the history of the sport. Print media faces challenges in the digital age, but Robert believes in its lasting value. Robert's journey reflects a deep passion for mushing and a commitment to the community. Titles Exploring the World of Mushing with Robert Forto The Journey of a Sled Dog Enthusiast Sound Bites "I just love being out there." "I think that's a great idea." "I just got a heck of an opportunity." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Robert Forto and Mushing 01:55 Robert's Journey into Sled Dog Mushing 06:09 Life in Willow, Alaska: The Mushing Community 10:51 The Iditarod Dream and Its Evolution 13:49 The Growth of Podcasting in the Mushing Community 17:03 Recent Developments in the Iditarod Race 24:35 The Value of Racing and Support in Dog Mushing 29:52 Teaching Leadership Through Dog Mushing 36:12 The Challenges of Modern Entrepreneurship 46:33 Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations and Opportunities

Whether you are prepping for the federal Falconry Exam or just want to expand your knowledge of raptors, animal husbandry and the ancient art, this three part series is for you! Check it out.

American Falconers have to undergo a rigorous process to receive federal licenses. While these questions are designed to prepare a falconry prospect for the exam, it is also great information for anyone who loves birds of prey. Check it out.

Studying for your Federal Falconry Test? Or just love learning about birds of prey? Maybe you just love knowing random facts about random things? If so, you will enjoy listening to this study guide!

Thanks to Nome, Alaska KNOM radio's Ben Thompson for sharing his interview with us just after finishing the expedition. If you want to know what we were thinking the day after we came off the expedition, check it out!

In this first conversation with expedition team members, Caleb and Jonathan discuss the exciting and lonely road of adventure film making and the challenges facing the upcoming Centennial Seppala Expedition.

This promises to be both an entertaining and educational conversation. Dr. Randal and Aimee talk about the magic of partnering with working animals and their nutritional needs. Check it out!

Larry's life has been defined by adventure. This is a conversation you do not want to miss. You can listen on Youtube here: https://youtu.be/bQ29d9uRilw?si=inEU3jKSXmE95Tzc Spotify here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0bZ7CJl7d6PgHGj6zJJbfx... Apple Podcasts here: https://podcasts.apple.com/.../larry.../id1739655245... You can support Larry's cancer charity here: https://www.radiatinghope.org/ And you can follow Calvin Daugherty's journey to the Iditarod here: https://www.calvinanddoggs.com/

Nobody knows the White Mountain and Baxter trails like Don Eno. Don spends almost as much time on the trails on and around "The Greatest Mountain (Katahdin)" than he does at home. In this conversation we talk about everything from New England Hiking to New England Transcendentalism. Check it out.

In this episode, Mushing Magazine CEO Robert shares how he has successfully married his passion for mushing with his entrepreneurial spirit. You can catch his podcasts and subscribe to the magazine by visiting www.Mushing.com

Mike Parker discusses his journey to becoming an Iditarod rookie including the tragic and fatal snowmobile strike last season and the support of his family and friends. You can learn more about his epic journey and partner with him by checking out his website here https://www.sleddogparker.com/sponsorship

Today we chat with Vikings, Game of Thrones and Richard the Lion-Heart actor and international sword master, MISHAËL LOPES CARDOZO. Cardozo discusses balancing his manny passions and gifts as an artist, musician, fencer and actor. You can follow check out his website here: https://www.amek.org/ And you can follow him on facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/mishael.lopescardozo And you can follow him on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/mastercardozo/ You can watchi his acting clips here: https://youtu.be/ti1idGXunKA?si=CskcJW2XFF-LaEwK

Kat and Jonathan discuss women in racing and the negative effect the new CDC rules will have on the sport of dog mushing. You can follow Kat on social media here: https://www.facebook.com/katherine.a.... And here are her instructions on helping address the issue with the CDC: "We need letters telling YOUR STORY from as many people as possible in Canada and the US to see which will negatively impact individuals/mushers/sport/dog racing/pet owners/personal travel/breeding programs/tourism/economy etc. , to give to senator Collins ➡️Please send your stories as soon as possible to Sarah at [email protected] ➡️The subject line must be: CDC regulations. If you want to see change, get up and help those who work so hard for us to get it!!! Thank you 💙"

Iditarod Veteran, bush Pilot, Arctic Village School Teacher and President of the Leonhard Seppala House Project. Please check out the organization website and consider supporting their cause! https://leonhardseppalahouseproject.com/

Join in the conversation with acclaimed artist and Alaskan musher, Jon Von Zyle

In this episode, author Douglas Wamsley discusses his biography of the 19th century polar explorer, Isaac Israel Hayes

John Glowa has led the Maine Wolf Coalition for 30 years. In this episode we discuss eastern timber wolf immigration from Canada and the hybridization of eastern wolves with coyotes. We also discuss issues surrounding hunting canids and