The Dubcast With Dubside

Send us Fan MailSUPPORT TEAM QAJAQ USA'S JOURNEY TO GREENLANDIn this episode, Dubside talks with Michael Krabach at the 2025 Delmarva Paddlers Retreat about the craft, science, and obsession behind making Greenland paddles. Mike explains how he approaches paddle carving from an engineering perspective, why he thinks of the paddle as a hydrofoil, what woods he prefers, and why a sharp block plane may be the most important tool in the shop. Along the way, they discuss Home Depot lumber, Alaskan yellow cedar, tool sharpening, paddle flex, and why Mike’s handmade paddles have become known as “the best paddle you can’t buy.”

Send us Fan MailSUPPORT TEAM QAJAQ USA'S JOURNEY TO GREENLANDDubside interviews Chuck Smith at the Traditional Paddlers’ Gathering in Minnesota for a lively conversation about building skin-on-frame kayaks, shaping paddles, teaching kayaking skills, and paddling the often wild waters of the Great Lakes. Chuck offers down-to-earth advice for anyone curious about building their own kayak, from materials and tools to the real costs and time involved, while also sharing hard-earned thoughts on paddle design, surf, safety, and the unique weather of places like Lake Superior.

Send us Fan MailWATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBETEAM QAJAQ USA EXPEDITION JACKETS ARE NOW AVAILABLE at The Dubside Supply CompanyGOFUNDME: SUPPORT TEAM QAJAQ USA'S JOURNEY TO GREENLANDIn this episode of The Dubcast with Dubside, Andrew and Dubside officially launch the new QAJAQ USA fundraising campaign to support the team’s journey to Nuuk for the 2026 Greenland National Kayaking Championships. They unveil the limited-edition Team QAJAQ USA expedition jacket, explain how supporters can help send the team to Greenland, and reflect on the deeper purpose of the trip: honoring, supporting, and celebrating Greenlandic kayak culture.The featured guest is newest team member Jon Raybuck, who joins the show to talk about his background in traditional kayaking, his training for the championships, and why he sees the trip as both a serious athletic challenge and a rare cultural opportunity. Along the way, the conversation ranges from cold-water rolling and harpoon practice to gear, travel logistics, and Dubside’s insider perspective on the people and atmosphere of competition week in Nuuk. 

Send us Fan MailWATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBEIn this special episode of The Dubcast with Dubside, we introduce two members of Team Qajaq USA—Andy Thon and Erin Sunseri—who will be joining us this July in Nuuk, Greenland for Qaannamik Unammersuarneq 2026, the Greenland National Kayaking Championships.Dubside sits down with Andy and Erin to hear how they each found their way into the world of Greenland-style kayaking—from carving their first paddles to learning to roll, attending Delmarva, and catching the bug that leads all the way to Greenland. Erin reflects on her previous trip to Aasiaat and what she’s looking forward to doing differently this time, while Andy shares his training approach and his deeper motivation: connecting with and supporting a living cultural tradition.The conversation ranges from training routines and cold-water realities to borrowed kayaks, whale stew, team logistics, and the importance of showing up—not just to compete, but to participate in something much bigger.This is the beginning of the journey to Nuuk—and the formation of a team united by curiosity, camaraderie, and respect for the roots of kayaking.

Send us Fan MailIn Part 2 of Dubside’s conversation with Danish kayaker Mikkel Larsen, recorded in Copenhagen, the discussion turns from kayaking to the deeper personal experiences that shaped Mikkel’s life after leaving Greenland.Mikkel reflects on the complicated realities of living in a small Arctic community, where close social ties can also expose difficult moral and social tensions. These experiences ultimately led him to return to Denmark in 2016, where an unexpected opportunity at the legendary Arctic Circle Race set him on a completely new path.What followed is a remarkable story of improvisation and persistence. Starting with little money and only a brief massage course, Mikkel built a pain-reduction practice called Sportsværksted, developing his own hands-on methods through experimentation and experience. Today he works with athletes and people suffering from chronic pain, guided by a simple rule: if he can’t reduce a client’s pain by at least 50 percent, they don’t pay.The conversation then shifts to geopolitics, as Mikkel shares a Danish perspective on the evolving relationship between Greenland, Denmark, and the United States, and how recent political tensions have reshaped attitudes in both Denmark and Greenland.This episode offers a thoughtful mix of personal story, unconventional healing, and international perspective from someone who has lived deeply in both Greenlandic and Danish worlds.Sports VaerkstedGuide to Greenlandic culture: Introduction to how Greenlanders think and act. By Mikkel Larsen

Send us Fan MailIn this special guest episode of The Dubcast with Dubside, Dubside sits down in Copenhagen with Mikkel Larsen — a Danish teacher who spent six transformative years living in Sisimiut, Greenland from 2010 to 2016.What began as a leap of faith — moving to Greenland to teach Danish to high school students — turned into a deep immersion in Greenlandic culture. Mikkel shares what it was like navigating language barriers, silent kaffemik gatherings, and the subtle social codes of a small Arctic community. Along the way, he found his way to Qajaq Sisimiut and, before long, was building his own skin-on-frame kayak inside the clubhouse.Despite having almost no experience, Mikkel was pushed — in classic Greenlandic fashion — straight into competing in the National Greenland Kayaking Championships. He recounts lining up for his first race after only minutes in his new kayak, battling fear, cold water, long-distance takisuumut races, and the humbling reality of always finishing last — yet always finishing.This is a story about cultural humility, persistence, embarrassment, pride, and the profound feeling of being alive on Arctic water. It’s also a portrait of how Greenlanders welcome outsiders — slowly, quietly, and on their own terms.

Send us Fan MailWATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBEDuring the Greenland National Kayaking Championships, Dubside sits down in Sisimiut with Danish veterinarian Asger von Wenck, who has made the leap from teaching veterinary surgery at the University of Copenhagen to living and working full-time in Greenland.With race starts and kayak songs drifting through the background, Asger shares stories about his work with sled dogs, government vaccination programs, rabies prevention, and the surprising absence of ticks in Greenland. He explains the strict microchipping system for dogs, the realities of veterinary care along the vast Arctic coastline, and what it’s like helping patrol teams in the Northeast Greenland National Park.The conversation ranges far beyond dogs. They discuss Greenlandic food (including raw seal liver and mattak), winter darkness, homelessness in Nuuk, language learning, and the evolving relationship between Denmark and Greenland in a changing political climate.A thoughtful, wide-ranging 30-minute conversation about life in Greenland—from kayak clubs to seal soup—with the sounds of competition echoing in the Arctic air.

Send us Fan MailWATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBEBefore the conversation turns to Tim Gallaway’s Greenland adventures, Andrew and Dubside open the episode with a wide-ranging, characteristically candid check-in on everything surrounding the upcoming Greenland National Kayaking Championships.Tim Gallaway returns to The Dubcast with Dubside to relive his 2018 trip to Greenland—and to offer a reality-check (and a boost of encouragement) for anyone thinking about heading to Nuuk to compete.Tim walks Dubside through the whole arc: flight delays and fog diversions, hauling a cut-up skin-on-frame kayak through airports, and the gamble of arriving early enough to rebuild and skin it in the clubhouse. Along the way he shares the unlikely housing luck that made his trip possible, what daily life felt like inside a local home, and the practical rhythm of getting around Nuuk on foot, by bus, and with a backpack full of “just in case” layers.From there it’s straight into the competition: the short race, rolling—solo and team—harpoon throwing, and the ropes event inside the gym, where the energy of the crowd can turn a single feat into a full-on eruption. Tim also talks food (seal stew, musk ox, and humpback whale), ice-cold glacier water, long golden-hour nights, and post-event hikes.The conversation closes with Tim’s reflections on why Greenland still calls him back—not just for competition, but for a true expedition.Tim Gallaway/Kayak To The SeaThe Masik (Qajaq USA's electronic newsletter)

Send us Fan MailWATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBEIn this episode of The Dubcast with Dubside, Dubside sits down with longtime friend and expedition paddler Skip Pauls on San Juan Island to trace a lifetime of sea kayaking. Skip recalls cutting his teeth on long-distance days along the New England shoreline—circumnavigating Cape Ann, crossing from Plymouth to Provincetown, and threading the islands of Maine—before discovering the raw, three-dimensional coastline of Mendocino, California.From solo explorations of unmapped sea caves and surge channels to bull kelp forests, abalone divers, near-misses in rock gardens, and an unforgettable close encounter with a gray whale in stormy seas, Skip paints a vivid portrait of what it means to really know a coastline. Along the way he reflects on mentors, boat choice, safety, and the unique headspace required to paddle big water day after day.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Dubside steps away from kayaks and Greenland to tackle one of the most consequential questions of our time: artificial intelligence. Using simple but unsettling examples—like exponential growth, folded paper, and doubling pennies—he explores why AI’s impact on humanity will be profoundly counterintuitive and easy to underestimate.From autonomous AI, the Internet as an AI ecosystem, and the impossibility of enforcing ethics or punishment, to environmental costs, religion, theology, and power, Dubside traces a sweeping arc that connects Silicon Valley, colonial history, Indigenous dispossession, and biological vulnerability. Along the way, he asks whether AI represents humanity’s salvation, its undoing, or something even more disturbing—invoking ideas like the Rapture, the Antichrist, and a chilling bargain where convenience is exchanged for control.Referencing cultural voices like Dolly Parton, historical myths, and moral blind spots, this episode is a provocative meditation on exponential change, narrative power, and whether humanity truly understands what it is giving away—for something that seems cheap at first, but doubles every year.

Send us Fan MailIn this special guest episode of The Dubcast with Dubside, Dubside sits down with acclaimed Greenlandic filmmaker and artist Inuk Silis Hoegh for a wide-ranging conversation recorded aboard a boat in Nuuk Harbor.They explore Inuk’s creative journey—from his early short films and fiction work to his powerful documentary Sumé: The Sound of a Revolution, which chronicles the legendary Greenlandic rock band whose music helped ignite cultural self-determination in the 1970s. The discussion also revisits Melting Barricades, Inuk’s provocative 2004 performance art project that imagined a Greenlandic army resisting cultural invasion—an idea that feels newly resonant today.Along the way, Inuk reflects on art, identity, colonial history, archival memory, and the challenges of filmmaking in the Arctic, including mosquitoes, frost, and fleeting windows of green. The episode closes with insights into his recent land-art film installation The Green Land and his ongoing documentary work.Melting BarricadesSumé The Sound of A Revolution

Send us Fan MailWATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBEIn this episode of The Dubcast with Dubside, we visit kayak designer and rough water paddler Warren Williamson in his Anacortes workshop. Warren walks us through the evolution of his designs—from the perfectly curved hull of the Cayenne, to the true-to-form baidarka, to the fast and fluid Rosario—each born from years of experimentation with how water truly wants to move around a kayak. We also explore Warren’s innovative paddle development, as he explains how a single Greenland paddle set him on a path from classic narrow blades to the short, wide, ultra-thin power blades he now carves by hand. Chessy Knight shares how these designs perform in the real world of whirlpools, surf, and tidal races. We close with a remembrance of Warren’s long time friend and founder of the Skin Boat School, Corey Freedman, whose mentorship and legendary “Corey’s Goop” helped shape an entire generation of builders. LINKS: Masik Kayak Rolling (Chessy Knight)  The Skin Boat School 

Send us Fan MailIn this special guest episode of The Dubcast with Dubside, Dubside sits down with longtime SSTIKS organizer and mentor Joanne Barta. Recorded in May 2025 at the TRAQS gathering in Florida, the conversation traces Joanne’s journey from her first awe-filled paddle in Southeast Alaska to becoming a central figure in the South Sound Traditional Inuit Kayak Symposium (SSTIKS) and Qajaq USA events.Joanne shares how she discovered Greenland paddles, built her own boats, and grew into a respected instructor—especially known for her work teaching kids to roll. She and Dubside talk about what made SSTIKS unique: its deep commitment to families, a full kids’ program with appropriately sized skin-on-frame kayaks and paddles, and a collaborative organizing culture that kept costs low and community at the center.They also discuss the challenges of keeping an event alive through COVID, and then sparking a rebirth of SSTIKS in 2025 at Vista Park in Skamokawa, Washington. Along the way, Joanne recalls memorable international adventures, including an early traditional kayaking event in Argentina with improvised kayak builds, unfamiliar local customs, and a mayor-backed exemption just to get kayaks home on car roofs.It’s a 40-minute tour through the history and future of SSTIKS—and a tribute to the community that keeps traditional kayaking thriving.LINKS:SSTIKS 2025

Send us Fan MailWATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOU TUBEIn this episode, Dubside and Andrew visit legendary sea kayaker Nigel Foster and ceramic artist Kristin Nelson at their home in Seattle during their road trip to SSTIKS 2025. Nigel reflects on his lifelong journey on the water — from his early days paddling skin-on-frame boats on the English coast, to designing the Vyneck for his record-setting 1977 circumnavigation of Iceland, and creating iconic kayaks like the Legend, Shadow, and Silhouette. He shares stories of innovation, independence, and the spirit of exploration that has shaped a generation of paddlers. Kristin talks about her ceramic work, her collaborations with other artists, and how handmade objects bring warmth and meaning into everyday life. A conversation about craftsmanship, curiosity, and finding art in both water and clay. Links: Nigel Foster’s Amazon Page  Nigel Foster Kayaks VitCeramics.com

Send us Fan MailA whirlwind primer on Greenland’s National Kayaking Championships—past, present, and (very likely) Nuuk 2026. Fresh from Delmarva, Dubside breaks down the events (races, rolling, ropes, harpoon), the divisions, how scoring works, and what it actually feels like to compete. He shares travel/lodging realities, costs, gear options (including Qajaq USA fleet ideas), and why “attitude over ability” is the only qualifier that matters. Along the way: stories from the beach in Qaqortoq, a lesson in patience from judging days, Nate Apgar’s mid-start mindset shift, and why the whole thing ultimately exists “for the kids.” If you’re curious about joining Team Qajaq USA—or cheering from home—this is your roadmap. #QUSANUUK2026LINKS:Delmarva Paddler’s RetreatFind transcripts to our episodes on The Dubcast with Dubside website on BuzzsproutThe Dubcast with Dubside on Instagram

Send us Fan MailCLICK HERE TO WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBEWhen Dubside discovers a crack in his fiberglass kayak after a trip to Delmarva, he and Andrew hit the road in search of answers. Their journey takes them to Gig Harbor, Washington, where Dubside reconnects with an old friend—Rhonda Schwab, a longtime kayak repair expert and the founder of Kayakers Go Coastal.Rhonda has been fixing kayaks for over 25 years, and in this in-depth conversation, she walks Dubside through the art of fiberglass repair—from emergency field fixes to full gel coat restoration.This is the first episode of The Dubcast with Dubside recorded entirely on video, and it’s part how-to guide, part reunion, and part love letter to the kayak community of the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or just curious about how to keep your kayak seaworthy, this episode is packed with expert tips, practical advice, and plenty of kayak nerdiness.LINKS:Kayakers Go CoastalTop Kayaker

Send us Fan MailAndrew and Dubside kick off with BIG NEWS: plans to assemble an American team for the 2026 Greenland National Kayaking Championships in Nuuk. From travel tips to team jackets, they lay the groundwork for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, participating in one of the most unique paddling events in the world.  Then Dubside interviews Florida paddler and flute-maker Mike Knight, who shares his journey into kayaking and Greenland-style paddles. He performs hauntingly beautiful melodies on the Native American flutes he handcrafts. A one-of-a-kind episode that blends tradition, craft, and the spirit of exploration.LINKS:Check us out on INSTAGRAM.

Send us Fan MailEpisode 72 picks up where #71 left off—on the road (and sea) through Greenland and Denmark in July 2025. Highlights include the kayak championships in Sisimiut (with qajaatullamaak winners Ujarneq Tobiassen and Ivinnquaq Olsen), a quiet overnight aboard the Sarfaq Ittuk, and a laid‑back stay at Nuuk’s Seaman’s Home while the city buzzes with new construction. Dubside reconnects with friends old and new, previews forthcoming interviews with filmmaker Inuk Silis Høegh and cultural guide Mikkel Larsen, and drops music and culture gems: the TUSAS Music app, the rising Bolt Lamar streetwear brand, and a packed two‑day “Greenland in Tivoli” showcase featuring DDR (“Sussa!”), Naneruaq, and a duet set from Rasmus Lyberth and Julie Bertelsen. There’s even a coin‑collector detour—from the Apostle Islands U.S. quarter to Denmark’s 2010 kayak 20‑kroner. Plus: a shout‑out to a listener who recognized him in the crowd, and a nudge to check out the new Instagram: @the_dubcast_with_dubside.LINKS:Guide to Greenlandic culture: Introduction to how Greenlanders think and act. By Mikkel Larsen

Send us Fan MailDubside is back from Greenland! In this long-anticipated report, he recounts his 2025 journey to the Greenland National Kayaking Championship — a trip filled with unexpected delays, travel detours, and spontaneous moments of generosity and connection. From navigating airline mishaps and expired currency to rolling with an international team and reconnecting with old friends, Dubside paints a vivid portrait of the joys and challenges of Arctic travel.There’s even a near-miss accident that almost derailed the whole adventure — and a haunting musical performance recorded with natural echo in a mysterious underground monument in Copenhagen.This episode is a rich blend of storytelling, culture, and sound — with a preview of what’s to come in Episode #72.Qaannamik unammersuarneq 2025: Iligiikkaarluni kingusaqattaarneq 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Dubside and Andrew catch up with renowned sea kayak coach Leon Sommé, co-founder of Body Boat Blade International on Orcas Island. Leon shares the journey from his first sea kayak in the Boundary Waters to building one of North America’s most respected kayak schools with his partner, Shawna Franklin. Along the way, he talks about memorable expeditions—including circumnavigating Iceland and Vancouver Island—the golden era of sea kayaking symposiums, Greenland paddling influences, and the enduring value of teaching risk assessment and seamanship. Now medically retired from professional coaching, Leon reflects on a lifetime on the water, the community he helped shape, and the adventures that still keep him moving.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Dubcast with Dubside, we sit down with Maddi Murphy—paddler, performer, and mental health counselor-in-training—at the Delmarva Paddlers Retreat. Maddi first attended Greenland-style kayaking events as a child, rolling her first kayak at just 14, and has since grown into a thoughtful and dedicated mentor in the community.Dubside and Maddi explore her early introduction to traditional kayaking, what it was like to return to the sport as a teenager, and the rewarding (and sometimes frustrating) experience of teaching others to roll. Maddi shares powerful insights into the psychological barriers that can hold people back—especially those coping with fear or trauma—and how grounding techniques from her counseling work can help students regain calm and confidence on the water.From rolling progression to Dashboard Dramas, and from stiff old kayakers to the strength of young women, this is a rich, heartfelt conversation about growth, resilience, and finding joy in the water.Delmarva Paddler's Retreat

Send us Fan MailIn this heartfelt and wide-ranging conversation, Dubside sits down with retired teacher and Madeline Island local Sally Bergerud to explore life on the edge of Lake Superior. From teaching in a two-room schoolhouse to crossing ice roads, dodging black bears, and paddling the Apostle Islands with a group of fearless women, Sally paints a vivid portrait of community, resilience, and deep connection to place. The episode ends with a moving story of the Ojibwe people and their sacred ties to Madeline Island—Mooningwanekaaning. This is an episode full of history, humor, and heart.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Dubcast with Dubside, we venture into the wild and windswept world of Lake Superior with long-time kayaker and guide Henry Davies. Broadcasting from Henry’s home on the rocky shore of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Dubside dives deep into a wide-ranging conversation about the unique challenges of guiding at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.Henry shares stories from decades on the water—his approach to training kayak guides in icy conditions, the geology and hidden dangers of Lake Superior, the drinkability of its waters, how he transitioned from canoeing to Greenland paddling, and the joys and frustrations of teaching rolling to newcomers. We learn about shipwrecks, surfing inland waves, bears stranded in sea caves, and why Spray Falls remains one of the lake’s most magical and remote spots.Whether you’re a traditional kayaking enthusiast, a guide in training, or just someone who dreams of paddling along sandstone cliffs streaked with copper and iron, this episode captures the essence of paddling culture on the inland sea.LINKS:Qajaq TC (Training Camp)Traditional Paddlers Gathering

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Dubcast with Dubside, Dubside and Andrew reflect on the highlights of the weekend at SSTIKS 2025, the people they met, and the unique energy of the event. It’s a quiet moment of gratitude, insight, and storytelling around the campfire.We then head to Sweden for a deep-dive conversation with David Täng—Greenland-style kayak roller, skin-on-frame qajaq builder, and founder of Sweden’s growing rolling competition scene. From his early days learning from Cheri Perry and Turner Wilson’s DVDs to launching a rolling club and helping organize the Swedish Rolling Championships, David shares his journey, philosophy, and the technical secrets behind his competition rolls—including insights on cockpit design, spinal flexibility, and the elusive straitjacket roll.Whether you’re a seasoned roller or just learning your first recovery, this episode offers rich technique discussion, community-building wisdom, and inspiration for anyone obsessed with qajaq rolling. Plus, David tells the story behind his website qajaqrolling.com, and shares thoughts on building toward an international rolling competition.LINKS:This episode on YouTubeThe Dubcast With Dubside on InstagramDavid Täng: Welcome to Qajaq Rolling

Send us Fan MailIn this reflective episode, Dubside explores what happens when vessels outlive their purpose—from ancient kayaks that return to the earth to legendary ships like the Barnegat Lightship and the SS United States. With personal stories and rich maritime history, Dubside paddles through memory and metal, examining the dignity and decay of watercraft at the end of their journeys. Plus, a haunting encore from Greenlandic artist Rikka.

Send us Fan MailOn this episode of The Dubcast with Dubside, Dubside travels to the idyllic beachside waters of southern Sweden to visit friend and local kayak heroes Petrus and Irene from Petrus Kajak. Petrus discusses how they expanded a solo kayak construction operation to a full-time boatbuilding and rental business, operating hands-on workshops where students build their own wooden kayaks from the ground up. Irene provides a behind-the-scenes tour of the day-to-day operations—and shares the history behind the addition of a robot lawnmower to the team, christened “Dubside Junior.”They look back over their Scout heritage, Sweden’s right of public access (Allemansrätten), and the art of staying cool with vacationing canoeists. There’s a multilingual twist too, as they also provide impromptu translations of their services in Swedish and German.A warm and easygoing dialogue rich in wisdom, wit, and the unmistakable beat of a water, wood, and people-based life.LINKS:PetrusKajak

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Dubcast with Dubside, Andrew sits down with Paul Steinberg and Noy Davis, coordinators of the South Sound Traditional Inuit Kayaking Symposium—better known as SSTIKS. After a five-year hiatus, SSTIKS is back, and Paul and Noy share what it’s taken to bring this beloved gathering of Greenland-style paddlers back to life. They talk about the history of the event, the joys and challenges of rope gymnastics, why kids make the best rope rollers, and the rich community of kayak builders, rollers, and storytellers that have kept the tradition alive in the Pacific Northwest. With reflections on mentors, DIY kayaks, and Deadfish Polo, this episode is both a tribute and a rallying cry for the next generation of traditional paddlers.LINKS:South Sound Traditional Inuit Kayaking Symposium (SSTIKS)Palo’s Wedding

Send us Fan MailGOFUNDME: Stories from the Arctic: Help Dubside Return to GreenlandIn this episode of The Dubcast with Dubside, Dubside explores Greenland’s evolving path toward independence. Drawing from his personal experiences visiting Greenland over several years, he offers a thoughtful perspective on the island’s complex relationship with the United States—from WWII and the Cold War to the present day.Dubside dives into the fascinating and often surprising history of Greenland–U.S. relations, discusses the economic and political obstacles Greenland faces in achieving full sovereignty, and explains why, today, Greenland and the U.S. are closer than ever. An insightful, personal look at a country on the brink of transformation.LINKS:SSTIKS: The South Sound Traditional Inuit Kayak SymposiumTRAQS: Traditional Qajaqers of the South

Send us Fan MailGOFUNDME: Stories from the Arctic: Help Dubside Return to GreenlandIn this episode of The Dubcast with Dubside, Dubside sits down for a conversation with Max at the 2024 Greenland National Qajaq Championship in Qaqortoq. Listeners may remember Max from our April 23, 2022 interview with Brian Schulz, who raised over $16,000 to bring Max and his students to the championships.Originally from France, Max moved to the tiny, remote village of Tiniteqilaaq in East Greenland to learn firsthand how the Greenlanders lived—immersing himself in traditional practices like hunting, dog sledding, and kayaking. He has lived there ever since and now serves as the headmaster of the local school, where he passes on traditional kayaking knowledge to the next generation.In this conversation, Max reflects on how East Greenlanders adapt to scarcity by building kayaks with whatever materials are available, and how he learned traditional techniques in the most unexpected ways—through Chris Cunningham’s book Building the Greenland Kayak, YouTube videos, Brian Schulz’s tutorials, and in-person instruction from Eichi Ito in Japan.Now a bridge between generations, Max is inspiring his village’s youth to embrace kayaking from an early age and helping to keep Greenland’s qajaq heritage alive.

Send us Fan MailCLICK HERE TO HELP DUBSIDE RETURN TO GREENLAND!In this episode of The Dubcast with Dubside, Dubside shares stories and reflections on his recent encounters with the charismatic Jens Peter Kielsen, professional hunter, fisherman, founder of Qajaq Qaqortoq, and member of the Vilhelm Lynge Choir. Previously featured in Dubcast #20 (“The Narwhal Tusk Polar Bear Head Necklace”), Jens continues to be a fascinating figure in Greenland’s traditional kayaking and cultural landscape.Dubside recounts Jens’ presence as the honored guest at the 2024 Greenland National Qajaq Championships dinner and explores the significance of Greenlandic choral singing as both a beloved leisure activity and a deep expression of national identity.The episode also touches on new discoveries related to the elusive high-speed paddling technique known as kussarsarluni paarneq, including surprising details about how kayak design may have played a role in its effectiveness. A thoughtful and engaging look into the people, culture, and traditions of Greenland.LINKS:GOFUNDME: Stories from the Arctic: Help Dubside Return to GreenlandHunter’s Eye in South Greenland, experienced local trophy hunting and fishing guide offering a wide range of trophy hunting, fishing and sightseeing tours in southern part of Greenland. 

Send us Fan MailHELP DUBSIDE RETURN TO GREENLAND!In this episode of The Dubcast with Dubside, Dubside travels to Copenhagen for Greenland in Tivoli, the largest Greenlandic cultural event outside of Greenland. Held annually in the iconic Tivoli Gardens, this vibrant festival brings together Greenlandic musicians, artists, designers, and performers to showcase the rich traditions and evolving culture of Greenland.Dubside dives into the heart of the festivities, attending concerts, talking with Greenlandic musicians, and soaking in the unique fusion of ancient traditions and modern Arctic life. Along the way, he searches for familiar faces, including Ole Paulson, the crusty old photographer he last encountered in Qaqortoq.Join us as we explore how Greenland’s culture comes to life in the heart of Copenhagen, offering a rare opportunity to experience the spirit of the Arctic far from its icy shores.Kaar! by DDRPop Uummataaruffimmi by Ole KristiansenGOFUNDME: Stories from the Arctic: Help Dubside Return to Greenland

Send us Fan MailHELP DUBSIDE RETURN TO GREENLAND!Nuuk is changing fast, and in this episode of The Dubcast with Dubside, Dubside arrives from Qaqortoq to see the transformation firsthand. With the new airport bringing waves of development, he explores how locals are seizing new opportunities—like the creators of Bolt Lamar, Greenland’s hottest clothing brand. He also meets Ungaaq Tobiassen and his 13-year-old son Ivik, a fierce young competitor in the world of traditional kayaking. While searching for the American consulate, Dubside finds himself immersed in the rhythm of the city, ending his day singing and playing music with locals. From kayaking to culture to business, this episode captures a changing Nuuk, where past and future meet in surprising ways.LINKS:Bolt Lamar on InstagramGOFUNDME: Stories from the Arctic: Help Dubside Return to Greenland

Send us Fan MailIn this installment of The Dubcast with Dubside, Dubside jets off to Sweden to sit down with Johan Wirsen, the visionary behind the Ilaga—the original Tahe Greenland kayak. Discover how a serendipitous encounter with an old skin-on-frame kayak in a barn sparked Johan’s lifelong passion, leading him to pursue formal boatbuilding training in Gothenburg. In the interview, Johan dives deep into his design philosophy and the intricate challenges of transforming initial sketches into a finished product—from lofting and building a plug to navigating the complexities of commercial production. Tune in for an inspiring look at innovation, craftsmanship, and the art of kayak design.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Dubside sits down with Sepanta, a traditional kayaker and ESG consultant living in the remote village of Kulusuk, East Greenland. Sepanta shares her experiences navigating life in one of the world’s most breathtaking and extreme environments, from paddling among whales to the challenges of the high cost of living. Having previously spent a year at a scientific outpost in Antarctica, she brings a unique perspective on polar living, sustainability, and the rapid changes shaping Greenland’s future. As the world turns its attention to Greenland’s mineral wealth and adventure tourism grows, Sepanta discusses the delicate balance between economic development and environmental preservation. Tune in for an insightful conversation about life on the edge of the Arctic and the future of Greenland in a changing world.

Send us Fan MailIN THIS EPISODE:Dubside's journey through Greenland leads to a poignant meeting with the son and daughter of legendary seal hunter Efraim Adolfson, first introduced in Episode #56. Dubside shares the story of his encounter with Efraim years earlier and the long journey to translate his recorded interview, conducted in Greenlandic. The conversation is warm and reflective, as the siblings reminisce about their father’s life, his magnetic personality, and the packed funeral that spoke to his profound impact on the community. This episode captures a touching celebration of memory, legacy, and the enduring ties of family.

Send us Fan MailInternational sea kayaking coach James Manke discusses his inspiring journey from Ucluelet, where he transformed a dilapidated historic building into a kayak museum and workshop, to Costa Rica, where he plans to create a kayak retreat near world-class surf breaks. He opens up about his collaboration with Japanese traditional sea kayaker Eichi Ito to teach Greenland rolling techniques around the world, and how dedication, passion, and an unshakable belief in one's abilities can turn dreams into reality.LINKS:Stay Salty World Tour

Send us Fan MailDubside meets with Ida Nielsen in Qaqortoq, Greenland, for an in-depth conversation about the art and sport of traditional kayaking. As a seasoned competitor, Ida shares her expertise in kayak rolling and her experiences competing in Denmark as well as in Greenland as a member of Qajaq Nuuk. Together, they delve into the nuances of competition rolling, reflect on the evolution of the championship rules and practices over the years, and discuss how these changes are shaping the next generation of Greenland kayakers. It's a fascinating journey through tradition, innovation, and the enduring spirit of the sport.

Send us Fan MailIN THIS EPISODE: Dubside travels to Sweden to sit down with Björn Thomasson, the designer of the legendary Black Pearl kayak. Drawing inspiration from traditional East Greenland designs, Björn shares insights into the nuanced differences between East and West Greenland kayaks and the process of adapting centuries-old traditions for modern paddlers.  Björn opens up about the challenges of bringing a high-end kayak like the Black Pearl to market, navigating the delicate balance of craftsmanship, niche demand, and the risks of overseas manufacturing in China. He also discusses his role in the Swedish rolling competition, modeled after the National Greenland Kayaking Championships, offering a glimpse into the art and culture of Greenland-style kayaking in Scandinavia.  Don’t miss this deep dive into the world of kayak design, tradition, and innovation with one of the sport’s most respected voices.LINKS: Björn Thomasson Design

Send us Fan MailIN THIS EPISODE: Dubside sits down with Taagi, a master craftsman and wood carver from Qaqortoq. Taagi shares his firsthand observations of the resurgence of traditional kayaking in his hometown, home to Greenland's oldest kayaking club. He reflects on the legacy of seal hunters and recounts ancient legends of violent encounters between the Inuit and Norsemen. The conversation delves into Taagi's candid thoughts on Greenland's readiness for independence and the unique challenges posed by climate change, from its impact on maritime transportation to the booming tourism industry. This is an episode rich with history, culture, and a thought-provoking look at Greenland's evolving identity.

Send us Fan MailIN THIS EPISODE:Dubside takes listeners on a journey to Greenland for the 2024 National Kayaking Championships, where he competed in harpoon throwing and proudly took home a medal in the short-distance race. Dubside shares the highs and challenges of the trip—tracking down fresh vegetables for his signature breakfast, squeezing into a single room with the Ilulissat kayaking team, and walking through town as familiar faces recognized him. Dubside reflects on the lives of the young people he’s known, some filled with promise and others marked by echos of pain. It’s a heartfelt and raw look at his connection to Greenland, kayaking, and the people who’ve become like family.

Send us Fan MailIN THIS EPISODE:Dubside sits down with musician Christian Elsner of the band Nanook. Christian and his brother Frederik grew up surrounded by music and musicians in the Atlantic Music recording studio which was founded by their parents. Over the years, the brothers channeled their passion and talents into Nanook. Their unique sound has taken them beyond Greenland, with performances across Canada, the USA, and even Japan. Now, as Greenland faces rapid changes with the opening of the new international airport in Nuuk, Christian shares his hopes and concerns for the future of his homeland. Join us for an inspiring conversation about music, identity, and Greenland's evolving future.LINKS: The Bark Canoes and Skin Boats of Northern Eurasiaby Harri Luukkanen (Author), William W. Fitzhugh (Author), Evguenia Anichtchenko (Contributor)South Sound Traditional Inuit Kayak Symposium (SSTIKS) 2024From the Atlantic Music shop: The History of Greenlandic Music 

Send us Fan MailIN THIS EPISODE:Dubside interviews legendary Greenland National Kayaking champion Maligiaq Padilla. They discuss Maligiaq's journey back to his homeland after a series of unexpected challenges forced him to leave Alaska. Now a celebrity coach, Maligiaq is using his skills to mentor at-risk kids, instilling values of discipline and resilience. We'll also hear his thoughts on the future of Greenland and the preservation of traditional kayaking in a modern world. Stay tuned for an inspiring conversation!

Send us Fan MailIN THIS EPISODE:Dubside and Swedish traditional kayaker David Täng discuss Dubside's recent journey to Qorqortoq, Greenland --a trip that turned into a multi-day odyssey. From flight delays due to bad weather and frustrating miscommunications, Dubside faced every traveler's worst nightmare. Yet, amidst the chaos, there were pleasant surprises that helped turned things around. Tune in to hear all about the challenges and ultimate success of reaching his remote destination. 

Send us Fan MailIN THIS EPISODE:Dubside reads from his article, "Paartok 2012: A Two Day Race Along Greenland's Coastline," originally published in the April 2013 issue of Sea Kayaker Magazine. Dubside shares his experiences from the race and delves into how today's modern paddlers compare to the legendary Inuit paddlers of the past who traversed these same waters. Tune in for an engaging discussion on tradition, endurance, and the evolution of paddling techniques over time.

Send us Fan MailIN THIS EPISODE:In the olden days, the great Inuit seal hunters knew of a paddling technique which was used to make a kayak go really fast, called kussarsarluni paarneq. Dubside explains how it might have worked. Plus the music of Nanook, "Sivittorpormi" (It Has Indeed Been A Long Time).LINKS:Eastern Arctic Kayaks: History, Design, Technique by John HeathEfraim Adolfsen describes kussarsarluni paarneqNanook, Seinitta Qinngorpaatit

Send us Fan MailIN THIS EPISODE:Dubside shares highlights from his recent trip to Greenland, Sweden, and Denmark. During his journey, he reconnected with old friends, met with Greenlandic musicians, and interviewed traditional kayaking enthusiasts, designers, and builders, gaining fresh insights into the craft. Dubside also demonstrates the power of the Dubcast Index--a comprehensive catalog of Dubcast episodes--showing how listeners can easily explore past discussions with special guests focused on skin-on-frame kayak design. LINKS: THE DUBCAST INDEX Knees bent backwards

Send us Fan MailIN THIS EPISODE:Dubside recalls an article he wrote on navigating the waterways around Philadelphia for the March/April 2001 issue of the Anorak Newsletter, demonstrating the surprising advantages and hazards of using a folding kayak. As he unfolds his experiences, he is reminded of the harrowing tale of Sir John Franklin’s doomed arctic expedition in search of the Northwest Passage. Dubside concludes with a rendition of Inuit Chill’s hauntingly beautiful track, “Ummatiga” (My Heart). Tune in for a journey through history, adventure, and music!LINKS:“Oldest Inuit Footage Ever ” Written and edited by Al PatonAl Paton: INUIT CHILL – NATIVE AMERICAN CHILLOUT (2023)

Send us Fan MailIN THIS EPISODE:Dubside dives into the art of traditional Inuit qajaq rolling, offering listeners a judge's perspective on what to look for during a competition. He shares insights on the criteria and techniques that define exceptional performances and discusses his mission to make Inuit qajaq rolling more accessible and engaging for spectators. Join us for a fascinating exploration of this ancient skill and learn how Dubside is working to bring it to a wider audience.LINKS:The Last Ice Greenland National Kayaking Championships Rolling Competition Swedish Kayak rolling championships. Men elite day 2Jon David roll pt1Jon David Jenssen Roll pt2Ari J roll pt 1Ari J roll pt 22015 Danish National Rolling Competition Part II HDThe music of Naneruaq

Send us Fan MailIN THIS EPISODE:Dubside recounts his first thrilling adventures canoeing on the serene Rancocas River in New Jersey and delves into the poignant story of Hack's Canoes, the beloved local canoe rental business that once thrived but ultimately met an unfortunate end. Join Dubside for a heartfelt journey through personal memories and local history.LINKS:Derek Hutchinson's Guide to Eskimo RollingWhy You Probably Shouldn't Say 'Eskimo'The Masik, the QAJAQ USA NewsletterHistorical photo of Hack's Canoes at The Dash Point PirateKishima Timmiaaqqatut

Send us Fan MailIN THIS EPISODE: In this captivating episode, Dubside embarks on an unforgettable journey to Qaqortaq, Greenland, where he meets Efraim Adolfsen, one of the last surviving Inuit seal hunters who once navigated the icy waters in a traditional kayak. But the adventure doesn't end there. Dubside faces ongoing bewildering confrontations with a local photographer, fiercely protective of his community and resentful of foreign intrusions, ultimately ending in a deeper understanding of how the Inuit feel about the loss of ancient practices in a rapidly changing world.