This episode of the New England Ski Journal Base Camp Podcast, Mike and Keith explore the anticipation for the upcoming ski season and recent announcements from the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame. They discuss the induction of impactful figures like Sarah Bill Meyer, Hannah Kearney, and Chuck and Jan Perkins. The episode features an interview with Rex and Karen Rex Deitesfeld, founders of Zay Boots, who share their journey of developing an innovative, American-made ski boot with a unique radial closure system offering dynamic foot stability and comfort during turns. This episode delves into the technical aspects of ski boot manufacturing, including the challenges of creating a boot suitable for various skill levels and the importance of made-in-America production.

Topics

00:22 Signs of the Upcoming Ski Season

00:52 U.S. Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame Inductees

03:16 The Importance of Ski Boots

04:06 The Legacy of Hanson Boots

06:36 Challenges in Ski Boot Manufacturing

08:51 Introducing Zay Ski Boots

10:25 Interview with Zay Ski Boots Founders

17:36 The Radial Closure System Explained

22:13 Comparing Zay Boots to Other Ski Boots

24:46 The Zay Ski Boot Advantage

25:24 Target Audience for Zay Boots

26:30 Innovative Boot Design and Feedback

29:03 Fit and Volume Considerations

31:06 Boot Board and Flex Technology

33:41 Material Choices and Manufacturing

40:16 Liner Design and Comfort

43:10 Market Distribution and Pricing

45:34 Conclusion and Future Prospects

47:20 Post-Interview Reflections

The guest is renowned meteorologist Tim Kelley. The episode delves into the unique weather dynamics of New England, from early snowfall and weather streaks through fall to the intricacies of the Jay Peak snow machine. Tim, known for his expertise since leaving television, shares insights on past and upcoming winter conditions, the impacts of global phenomena like the Hunga Tonga eruption, and the advancements in meteorological modeling. Kelley also provides a forecast for the upcoming winter, expressing optimism despite climate variability, and touches upon personal anecdotes from his lifelong passion for weather and skiing. Expect an in-depth discussion filled with enthusiasm, expertise, and a love for New England's dynamic weather challenges.

Topics

00:40 Hosts' Weather Chat

03:43 Ski Area Preparations and Wildfires

05:45 Introducing Tim Kelley

07:12 Tim Kelly's Weather Insights

14:16 Jay Peak Weather Phenomenon

18:52 Global Warming and Snow Trends

24:49 Changes in Weather Forecasting

26:30 Model Forecasting Challenges

27:32 Television Career Reflections

28:35 Weather Reporting Evolution

33:33 YouTube Forecasting and Models

35:49 Winter Predictions and Farmer's Almanac

41:04 New England's Unique Weather

42:10 Excitement for the Upcoming Season

45:13 Podcast Conclusion and Optimism

In this episode of the New England Ski Journal Base Camp Podcast, hosts Mike Specian and Keith Pearson dive into the world of winter sports history with Justin Koski, Executive Director of the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame. The episode covers the Hall of Fame's mission to honor and preserve the legacies of influential athletes and sport builders in skiing and snowboarding. Koski discusses the selection process for inductees, the history and significance of the Hall located in Ishpeming, Michigan, and upcoming events, including the 2024 induction ceremony in Lake Placid. The conversation also touches on the importance of preserving the sport's heritage for future generations.

Topics

00:21 Reflecting on Past Winters and Hopes for Consistency

02:46 Nostalgia for Ski Magazines and Early Signs of Winter

05:21 Predicting the First Ski Resort to Open

07:11 Exploring the UP of Michigan and Its Ski Culture

08:26 Introduction to the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame

10:14 Interview with Justin Koski, Executive Director of the Hall of Fame

21:13 Introduction to the Hall of Fame Induction Process

22:23 Criteria for Induction into the Hall of Fame

23:57 Upcoming Induction Events and Locations

26:14 The Selection Process Explained

27:28 Nomination and Voting Details

29:49 Heritage Category and Induction Caps

31:57 Sneak Peek at the 2024 Ballot

36:49 How to Get Involved and Support the Hall of Fame

38:33 Closing Remarks and Reflections