Chase the Inevitable: Nancy Zane (GGW 003)

Let's consider the concept of inevitability.

It’s probably hard for some of our younger listeners to wrap their heads around the idea that a girl or woman would be actively dissuaded from pursuing outdoor interests or a career in an outdoor-related industry. But that’s been the reality for many women, just as it has been for many people of color, LGBTQ, and other under-represented groups of outdoor enthusiasts. So I hope today’s conversation will help us all reflect on the barriers that the expectations of society and family can often throw up in front of us and others, and provide a little bit of inspiration and encouragement to keep working to make our own desires inevitable.

Our guide today is Nancy Zane, who spent decades getting deflected or distracted away from an innate calling she felt toward the outdoors. In 2017, she finally started North Star Adventures, a company that "creates courses and certifications that meet you where you are". So if you, like Nancy, feel a relentless tug toward a life or career of outdoor adventure, this episode is for you.

You can check out Nancy's amazing trip and course offerings on her North Star Adventures website, and follow her @NStarAdventures on Facebook and Instagram.

And of course, don’t miss Paddle Maine Mondays!

If you’re interested in some of the organizations or products we discussed, check them out below: