The Ski Podcast

Jaksot

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  326: The end of Ski Sunday, Europe’s Indoor Snow Centres & Ski Club of Great Britain 11.09.2026 48min

  Today we discuss the BBC’s cancellation of ‘Ski Sunday’, find out SnowWorld’s network of European indoor snow centres and discover more about one of the important institutions of UK skiing: the Ski Club of Great Britain.Host Iain Martin was joined in the studio by Katy Ellis, General Manager at the Ski Club of Great Britain and Wim Hubrechtson, CEO of SnowWorld, and down the line by Chemmy Alcott and Freddy, Zak and Luca Carrick-Smith.——— Les 2 Alpes sponsors The Ski Podcast, which means this winter we will be finding out more about the resort’s long seven-month ski season, the great activities on offer there in summer, and some of the people who live and work there and make Les 2 Alpes such a fantastic destination. ———SHOW NOTESLes 2 Alpes is going to be title sponsor of The Ski Podcast this winter (0:30)Iain and Katy were at the industry event ‘Ski Launch’ (1:30) The BBC announced  that they are not renewing ‘Ski Sunday’ (6:15) Chemmy Alcott spoke with Iain about how she found out and her plans are now (7:45) The Ski Podcast sponsors Zak, Freddy and Luca Carrick Smith (13:30) They recently scored a unique family clean sweep at the NZ National Champs (13:45) Zak Carrick Smith will be at the London Snow Show this year (15:45) Secure your free tickets for the London Snow Show here (16:00) Use this link ‘SSLSATPOD100OFF‘ for free Saturday entry to the London Snow Show Use this link ‘SSLSUNPOD100OFF‘ for free Sunday entry to the London Snow Show Iain founded Natives in 1999 (18:30) Katy’s first job after ski seasons was with the Ski Club (19:30) She then moved on to Ski Solutions (21:00) Katy became ‘Head of Holidays’ at the Ski Club in 2022 (22:00) This year in 2026, she became General Manager (23:00) The Ski Club’s Freshtracks programme covers over 60 resorts (23:30) Ski Club reps (25:00) In Episode 212, Lou Cameron Hall shared her experience of doing the reps course (28:30) SnowWorld operates in 11 sites across 5 countries (33:00) There are 2.2m Dutch and Belgian skiers (36:00) Laadgraaf is 650m long (39:30) The Snow Centre merged with SnowWorld (39:00)        The SnowWorld slopes are very popular with race teams in summer (40:30) SnowWorld’s sustainability goals (42:15) EV slope groomers (45:00)FeedbackYou can leave a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – or you can drop me an email to [email protected]. We’re also on WhatsApp.Olek Pitsul “Episode 324 was great! As an apprentice at Snow Camp, it was fantastic to hear about our work and impact highlighted here. Thanks for a brilliant feature, Iain!”Louise Cotter liked Episode 323: “Very insightful. For anyone even slightly interested in skiing, I highly recommend The Ski Podcast. It is highly addictive and super informative.” isaben enjoyed Episode 314 about Zag Skis: “I love ZAG - I have a pair of Slap 92's and Harfangs and can't get enough of either of them!”Ben Wharfe:” I’ve been a long-time listener to The Ski Podcast and often listen to episodes with my son James, he is 15 and just starting year 11 to complete his GCSEs.” There are now 326 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up with: just go to theskipodcast.com, have a search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find something of interest. 
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  325: Andrzej Bargiel, First Person to Ski Everest Without Oxygen 04.09.2026 23min

  In today’s special episode we meet Andrzej Bargiel, the first person to ski Everest without oxygen.In September 2025, Andrzej went viral, after Red Bull released footage of him summitting and then skiing down Everest – the world’s highest peak – without any extra oxygen. To put his achievement into context, around 7500 people have summited Everest, but fewer than 200 have managed to do it without supplementary oxygen – and absolutely none of them have skied back down as well. We discuss Andrzej’s journey from a tough childhood in Poland, via first skimo racing, and then high mountain adventures, to how he became the only person to ski K2 from the summit and then the only person to summit and ski Everest without supplementary oxygen. Andrzej spoke in his natives language of Polish, so in this conversation, you’ll hear his words translated by an actor.SHOW NOTESWatch the full 30-minute version of Andrzej’s historic descent (0:30) If you are really pushed for time, you could watch the one minute version   Andrzej is the ninth of 11 children (2:45) Swapping table tennis bats for skis (2:45) Getting into ski touring (4:15) The ‘Hic Sunt Leones’ (‘Here are lions’) project (6:00) Learning to function with little oxygen (7:30) Attitudes to risk (8:30) Previous attempts on Everest in 2019 and 2021 Why September? (11:00) Reaching the summit (14:00) Negotiating the Khumbu icefall (16:45) Equipment for Everest (18:30) Everest, K2 and Nanga Parbat - which was the hardest to climb and the hardest to ski? (19:45)FEEDBACKYou can leave a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – or you can drop me an email to [email protected]. We’re also on WhatsApp, where I release exclusive material ahead of each episode there. Look in the Show Notes for those links.Matt Hayes: “Thank you for the content over the summer, some truly inspiring interviews. Also, for the free ticket for the snow show. We got so much out of it last year and booked our hotel as soon as the dates came out, so the free ticket certainly helps.” Colin Tierney: “Episode 323 was very interesting: disabled skiers impress me so much.” Jake Roskoe: “I really enjoyed Episode 235, when you spoke with Nancy Shiel from Big Sky Resort in Montana”There are now 325 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up with. Just go to theskipodcast.com, have a search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find something of interest to listen to.If you enjoyed this episode of The Ski Podcast (which took around 10 hours to produce!), you are welcome to buy me a coffee too at buymeacoffee.com/theskipodcast
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  324: Snowcamp’s Impact Retreat, Northern Snow Show & Australia/NZ Snow Updates 28.08.2026 35min

  We learn how a new retreat in Chamonix is creating opportunities for inner city young people, find out what’s going on at this year’s Northern Snow Show and we have the latest snow news from Australia and New Zealand. Host Iain Martin was joined in the studio by Laura Marriot-Clarke, founder of the Chamonix company, Girl Powder Mountain Retreats and Morv Bett, Head of Snowsports and Futures at Snow Camp, and down the line by Matt Robinson, Head of Events at Snow Centre Manchester, Rachael Oakes-Ash from snowsbest.com and Guy Beatson in Whakapapa, NZ. SHOW NOTESFind out more about the AJ Bell Three Valley Rally (3:30)Rachael Oakes-Ash from snowsbest.com is the ski expert on Australia & New Zealand (3:45) Guy Beatson is based at Whakapapa in New Zealand (6:00) Episode 312 is a special interview with Rachael (7:30) Iain spoke with Matt Robinson about the Northern Snow Show (7:45) Book a Premium Ticket for the show (10:00) The London Snow Show takes place at Olympia on 17 and 18 October (12:45)Take this link for your FREE Saturday tickets to the London Snow Show Take this link for your FREE Sunday tickets to the London Snow Show Snow Camp featured on the podcast most recently in Episode 249 (14:00) Iain fundraised for Snow Camp in 2025, visiting all five of the UK’s indoor snow centres in a single day (14:15) Amirra Blackwood discussed her journey in Episode 249, working for Ellis Brigham and SCGB (18:00) Girl Powder Mountain Retreats are based in Chamonix (20:00) The Snow Camp ‘Impact Retreat’ in Chamonix (24:45) Dates and Costs of the ‘Impact Retreat’ and how to book (30:00) Snowcamp was included in the list of Top SME Apprenticeship Employers in the country (31:30) Snowheads is a great online snowsports community (33:00)FeedbackYou can let us know your feedback by leaving a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – or send an email to [email protected]. We’re also on WhatsApp, where we release exclusive material ahead of each episode there. Layne: “Just listened to Episode 322 - interesting as always”russ e: “Really enjoyed the interview with Stu Brass. I went on a few of trips with the chaps from the Snowboarding forum from which SCUK was born.”  ster: “I must take exception with Rob in Episode 318 who stated that the ‘main resort’ in the Aosta valley is Courmayeur” There are now 324 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up with. Just go to theskipodcast.com, have a search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find something of interest. 
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  323: Disability Snowsport, Team Carrick-Smith Update & Tartiflette v. Fondue 14.08.2026 43min

  We find out about the increasing options available for disabled skiers and snowboarders, plus we look at the results of a new survey full of revelations, including the increasing role of AI in choosing holidays and some controversial views on fondue!We also have a special update from New Zealand from Team Carrick Smith and news on summer in La Plagne. Iain was joined in the studio by Virginia Anderson, CEO at Disability Snowsport UK and Simon McIntyre, Managing Director at Iglu Ski.SHOW NOTESSimon was last on the show in Episode 217 (1:00) Iain skied the last day of the season in Chamonix in May (3:00) The Ski Podcast sponsors Zak, Freddy and Luca Carrick Smith (3:30) They are currently based in Roundhill in New Zealand The summer ski areas in both Zermatt and Saas Fee have closed (5:50) The ice tunnel that leads from the Aiguille du Midi out to the arete closed last week  Iain reported from Les Arcs in summer in Episode 254 (7:00) Jen runs the website ‘That’s La Plagne’ (7:15) Barriers to skiing for disabled people (12:30) The new DSUK Hub at The Snow Centre Manchester (14:00) Recruiting and training adaptive instructors (15:00) Listen to Iain’s interview with paraplegic snow groomer Antoine Motillon in Episode 15 (18:30) What does a genuinely accessible ski resort look like? (20:00) What can resorts do to make a difference (21:30) Standout resorts doing a good job (22:45) In Episode 303, Alice Sainsbury from ‘un/para/ld’ on improving outdoor clothing for disabled people (25:00) Iglu helps raise funds for DSUK (27:00) Read the Iglu Ski Survey (30:30) 5% go long-haul (so USA, Canada, Japan) with most in Europe (31:30) There’s been a big jump in people using AI to research ski holidays (32:30) 20% of people book ‘at the last minute’ (35:00) 7% see their carbon footprint as being the most important factor in choosing how they travel (36:00) Find out more about train travel at skiflightfree.orgois (37:00) Apres-ski - clubbing at altitude v a hot tub and a sunny terrace (38:30) Toffee vodka v. Aperol spritz v. vin chaud v. beer v. wine (39:30) Tartiflette beats fondue (41:00)FeedbackYou can let us know what you’ve enjoyed this week or ideas for future features by leaving a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – or you  can drop me an email to [email protected]. We’re also on WhatsApp.Ed Hopkins: “Such a good idea” [Soberski in Episode 322] Colin Tierney: “Maybe it’s due to the age I started skiing but I never drink on a skiing holiday. I’d rather be safe on my skis as I would be with driving, so no alcohol the night before.”Louise Cotter: "The knowledge I am gaining for listening to your podcast is phenomenal. I absolutely love Benjamin Coombes concept of soberski - this holiday sounds incredible. Well done on sharing his journey.”If you do enjoy the podcast, you are welcome to buy me a coffee too at buymeacoffee.com/theskipodcastThere are now 323 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up with. Just go to theskipodcast.com, have a search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find something of interest. 
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  322: Alcohol-Free Ski Holidays, Villards de Lans in Vercors & OZ/NZ Snow Reports 31.07.2026 43min

  We find out about Villards de Lans in the Vercors area of France and discuss alcohol-free ski holidays in Méribel. We also have ski show news and snow reports from Australia, New Zealand and Chile.Host Iain Martin was joined by freelance journalist Katja Gaskell and Soberski founder Ben Coombes. SHOW NOTESKatja was last on the podcast in Episode 308 discussing Sundance Resort (0:45) Rachael Oakes-Ash from snowsbest.com is the ski expert on Australia & New Zealand (4:00) Guy Beatson is based at Whakapapa in New Zealand (9:00) Episode 312 is a special interview with Rachael (10:30) Portillo has had epic snowfall (10:45) Bartek Tyrpa from the pro-team at Carv reported from Valle Nevado in Chile (11:00) The Northern Snow Show takes place 03-04 October at The Snow Centre Manchester (12:30) Where is the Vercors? (13:30) The main ski area is Villards de Lans / Correncon en Vercors (14:45) Tony Parker is VERY famous in France It’s excellent for cross country skiing (20:00) Le Clarient is a self-sufficient restaurant (22:00) Soberski offers alcohol free ski holidays (24:00) Ben on why he quit alcohol (25:45) Why are skiing and drinking are so closely linked? (27:30) Starting Soberski (29:15) Soberski’s 2027 trip details (34:00) Katja reported on ice swimming in Samoens in Episode 166 (34:30)  The increase in alcohol-free options in bars (39:30)FeedbackIf you enjoyed this episode, or if you have any comments, please let me know. You can do that by leaving a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – or drop me an email to [email protected]. We’re also on WhatsApp.  Louise Cotter: “The night train ride [Episode 320] sounds like a lot of fun: my travel wish list is getting out of control thanks to The Ski Podcast.”Fiona Harvey-Jordan: “Fantastic episode as always!” There are now 322 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up with at www.theskipodcast.com – have a search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find something of interest to listen to. If you do enjoy the podcast and you want to help out you are very welcome to buy me a coffee at buymeacoffee.com/theskipodcast
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  321: Chamonix Stories #6 | Sam Haddad: “I looked down and there was just the abyss" 24.07.2026 12min

  In the sixth of our ‘Chamonix Stories’, we find out what it’s like to fall into a crevasse on the Vallée Blanche (don’t worry, this story has a happy ending!)Host Iain Martin speaks with freelance journalist Sam Haddad, about her first descent of the famous off-piste route – the Vallée Blanche. SHOW NOTESListen to our special episode about Chamonix (0:30)Sam Haddad runs the Substack ‘Climate and Board Sports’ Sam was last on the podcast in Episode 251 (1:00) She spent a season in Chamonix in 2000 (2:00) She was on the Envers du Plan route (2:15) Jamie and the Magic Torch (3:15) Falling in to the crevasse (4:45) Being found in the crevasse (6:00) Being lifted out (6:30) Having to keep snowboarding (7:30) Getting a helicopter back to resort (9:00) Doing the Vallée Blanche again (9:45)FEEDBACKIf you enjoyed this episode you can leave a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – or drop me an email to [email protected]. We’re also on WhatsApp. Simon Burgess: “Really enjoyed Episode 319 about Ronin Skis. It’s nice to know there are manufacturers aiming for longevity not just another sale.”Colin Tierney: “I’m off to Landgraaf in November to enjoy the longer slope indoors and Pila in March…have you got access to my ski calendar?" There are now 321 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up with. Just go to theskipodcast.com and have a search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find an episode of interest to listen to.If you did enjoy this episode and you’d like to support the podcast, then you are very welcome to buy me a coffee at buymeacoffee.com/theskipodcast 
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  320: Méribel Elections, Les 2 Alpes summer skiing and the Travelski Night Train 17.07.2026 44min

  We find out how a Brit got elected onto the Méribel town council, what summer skiing in Les 2 Alpes is like, and look at the Travelski night train to the Alps. We also have snow reports from Australia and New Zealand and the latest news. Host Iain Martin was joined in the studio by Alex Armand from Tip Top Ski Coaching and Richard Lett from Apres Ski Bands. SHOW NOTESRich spoke about apres-ski bands in the Alps in Episode 86 In Episode 180 he shared his insights into how to find a ski job post-Brexit Rachael Oakes-Ash from snowsbest.com is the ski expert on Australia & New Zealand (3:30) Episode 312 is a special interview with Rachael Guy Beatson is based at Whakapapa in New Zealand (5:30) Freeride Skiing will be included in the 2030 Olympics (6:30) Check out the Freeride World Tour channel on YouTube Cody Bramwell switched to the UK in 2021: "To be an Olympian would be the craziest dream ever" (7:30) British Olympians at Milan-Cortina are eligible for a €10000 grant from the IOC (8:30) Qualifying as an instructor (9:30) Summer skiing in Les 2 Alpes (13:00) Cycling around Mont Ventoux with Tip Top Bike Tours (17:00) Skiing on Mont Ventoux (17:30) Daniel Elkan runs the Snowcarbon website (19:00) Find out more about the Travelski Express night train Rich was one of the two first Brits to be elected to the Meribel council (28:00) Rich previously worked for Bladon Lines and the Brown Rock group (29:30) Rich runs Apres Ski Bands (30:45) Rich’s ‘commune’ is Méribel Les Allues (32:30) Responsibilities of the ‘commune’ (32:45) The new mayor of Méribel is Bernard Front (34:00) Getting on the mayoral ticket (34:30) ‘Agissons ensemble, transformons demain’: ‘Act together, transform tomorrow’ (35:00) In Episode 190 we covered the history of Méribel with David Lindsey (40:45)FeedbackIf you enjoyed this episode, or if you have any comments, please let me know. You can do that by leaving a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – or drop me an email to [email protected]. We’re also on WhatsApp.  Colin Tierney: “Great to hear from David Webster in Episode 317. I’ve used his videos before for Chamonix research.”Robbie Milne: “I went to Aosta and skied in Pila at Christmas and New Year. It’s underrated - a great little resort, lovely runs and it’s great to see more investment going in there.”If you do enjoy the podcast and you want to help out you are very welcome to buy me a coffee at buymeacoffee.com/theskipodcastLouise Cotter: “Binge listening to past episodes of The Ski Podcast has been my favourite way to cool down during the UK heatwave. Jonno from Ronin Skis’ commitment to sustainability is exceptionally impressive!”There are now 320 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up with at www.theskipodcast.com – have a search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find something of interest to listen to. 
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  319: Chamonix Stories #5 | Ronin Skis 10.07.2026 18min

  In the fifth in our series of ‘Chamonix Stories’, we Jonno Jacobs, founder of Ronin Skis – ‘exceptional lightweight touring and freeride skis for those who chart their own path’.Ronin is a passion project for Jonno: every ski is handmade and custom built for its owner, with a lot of thought put into making the skis as sustainable as possible. SHOW NOTESUsing a fridge to make a pair of skis (3:00)Listen to Iain’s interview with Tom Greenall on how he became a pisteur (4:00) Where does the Ronin name come from? (4:15) The first order of Ronin Skis (6:00) Jono makes about 75 pairs per year (7:00) Approach to sustainability (7:30) Construction of Ronin Skis (9:45) Flax, not fibreglass (11:30) Learning the art of making skis (13:15) Range and costs (15:00)FEEDBACKIf you enjoyed this episode, or if you have any comments, please let me know. You can do that by leaving a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – or drop me an email to [email protected]. We’re also on WhatsApp - I release exclusive material ahead of each episode there. Erik Jan Schutte: “I looked up OAK [Episode 316] and it looks cool. Keep up the good work.”Louise Cotter: “Episode 318 was fabulous. Chemmy Alcott is an inspiration for anybody to listen to.”There are now 319 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up with. Just go to theskipodcast.com and have a search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find an episode of interest to listen to.If you did enjoy this episode and you’d like to support the podcast, then you are very welcome to buy me a coffee at buymeacoffee.com/theskipodcast 
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  318: Chemmy Alcott on Lindsey Vonn & Dave Ryding, Pila in Italy & Oz/NZ Snow Reports 03.07.2026 50min

  Today we go behind the scenes of the BBC’s Olympics coverage with Chemmy Alcott, hearing what it was like to be on location for Lindsey Vonn's awful accident, as well as Dave Ryding's final race, plus we find out about the ski resort of Pila in Italy. We also have the latest from the start of the season Down Under in Australia and New Zealand and updates from GB Snowsport’s new generation of alpine racers, Luca, Zak and Freddy Carrick Smith. Host Iain Martin was joined in the studio by four-time Winter Olympian and BBC Ski Sunday presenter, Chemmy Alcott, as well as freelance journalist, Rob Rees.SHOW NOTESRob was last on the show in in Episode 262 discussing the Skiwelt in Austria (2:00) Rachael Oakes-Ash runs the website snowsbest.com and the expert on Australia and New Zealand skiing (5:00) There has been fresh snow in Australia on Friday 03 July (5:30) Episode 312 is a special interview with Rachael (7:30) Guy Beatson is based in Whakapapa, NZ (8:00) Alex Irwin from the YouTube channel 150 Days of Winter skied last week in Tignes (10:00) Kendra Scurfield reports from Sunshine Village in Canada (12:00) “Too many of us life in our comfort zones” (13:45) Chemmy on Mia Brookes (14:15) Chemmy on Lindsey Vonn and her awful accident (16:30) Will Vonn ever ski again, or even race again? (23:15) Watching GB Snowsport win their first Gold medal (24:30)Dave Ryding’s last race…with champagne on ice (25:45)Dave gatecrashing Chemmy’s piece to camera? (26:15) Listen to Iain’s interview with Dave Ryding in Episode 199 (27:00) Recent FIS elections: Johan Eliasch beaten by Alexander Ospelt (27:15) GB Snowsports’ Vicky Gosling election to the FIS council (28:45) Luca Carrick-Smith (29:45) Freddy Carrick-Smith (31:45) Chemmy on what Luca, Zak and Freddy need to do to take it to the next level (32:45) In Episode 311, Katie Bamber discussed Champoluc in the Aosta Valley (35:15) Where is Pila and Aosta? (35:30) Staying in Aosta (36:30) Aosta’s Roman history (37:30) Staying in Pila (39:00) Pila’s new lift (40:15) Who is Pila suitable for? (42:15) Other resorts in the Aosta Valley (43:00) Which were the first rocker skis? (48:15)Feedback (47:00)You can leave a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – our handle is @theskipodcast – or drop me an email to [email protected]. We’re also on WhatsApp.Alastair Yule: "Loved listening to Victoria in Episode 309. Gotta have her back with her daughter Mila who has qualified for the Freeride World Tour" Colin Tierney: "Episode 314 about Zag Skis was really interesting.” Neil Landon: "Thoroughly enjoying your podcasts, especially Episode 313 on Chamonix. It’s nearly 40 years since I skied there and it brings back fond memories." There are now 318 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up. If you’d like to keep your snow fix going over the summer, then just go to theskipodcast.com, have a search around and you’re bound to find something you’ll find something you’ll enjoy listening to. If you do enjoy the podcast and you want to help out you are very welcome to buy me a coffee at buymeacoffee.com/theskipodcast 
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  Introducing: The Ski Podcast 30.06.2026 1min

  Love snowsports? Then The Ski Podcast is just for you...In almost ten years and over 300 episodes, we have covered skiing on all seven continents, thanks to guests joining host, Iain Martin, to discuss everything from easily accessible family resorts to one-off bucket list treats.So, if you’d like to know more about world of snowsports, going behind the scenes with experts from across the world, why not join us and subscribe now. And even better, you don’t even have to wait until our next episode, just go to theskipodcast.com where you can catch up with over 300 episodes today.
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  317: Chamonix Stories #4 | David Webster (aka 'ChamonixSkiBum') 26.06.2026 29min

  In the third in our series of ‘Chamonix Stories’, we meet David Webster, better known on YouTube as “ChamonixSkiBum”. David has almost 10,000 subscribers and 1.7 million views on his channel, where he publishes snow reports, reports on his high mountain skiing and more Chamonix valley adventures.📸 @olajaniakSHOW NOTESFirst ski experiences (2:30)Skiing at Gloucester Dry Slope (3:00)Ski seasons in Courchevel (4:30)David has a PHD in Geology (5:15)Favourite runs in Les 3 Vallées (7:00)Moving to Chamonix (8:00)Background in mountaineering (8:30)Skiing with a guide? (10:00)Putting on skis in steep terrain (10:45)The Jager couloir (12:00) Col de Plan, North Face of the Aiguille du Midi (12:30) Cunningham Couloir / Passarelle Couloir (14:00) ‘By Chamonix standards’ (14:45) Glenn Plake skis the Passarelle Couloir in ‘Blizzard of Aaahs’ (15:00) The Vallee Blanche & the Mer de Glace (15:00) The danger of crevasses (18:00) Deciding to become a 'YouTuber' (18:45) Snow reports (22:30) Cameras used (23:00) 360 view of going down the arete at the Aiguille du Midi (25:00) Wild swimming and cycling (25:45) Wearing shorts for the Vallee Blanche (26:00) “It’s like Disneyland for adults” (27:15)FEEDBACKIf you enjoyed this episode, or if you have any comments, please let me know. You can do that by leaving a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – or drop me an email to [email protected]. We’re also on WhatsApp.James Rice: "Love the podcast. It's absolutely indispensable for me and a ‘must listen’ every week." Louise Cotter: “I am really enjoying the Chamonix series. The Oak app is awesome.” Max Martin: "High quality and high interest on all things skiing. Just listened to the Chamonix special. Well worth a subscribe."There are now 317 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up with. Just go to theskipodcast.com and have a search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find an episode of interest to listen to.If you did enjoy this episode and you’d like to support the podcast, then you are very welcome to buy me a coffee at buymeacoffee.com/theskipodcast
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  316: Chamonix Stories #3 | Oak (“Tinder for the Mountains”) 19.06.2026 16min

  In the third in our series of ‘Chamonix Stories’, we meet Emil Wittrup Præstbrogaard, founder of the Oak App. Oak was launched in 2024 to bring together the mountain community, including skiers, climbers, trail runners, mountaineers and more. SHOW NOTESWhat is Oak? (2:00) Like ‘Tinder for the Mountains’ (3:15) Emil’s background (4:00) Why Emil started the Oak app (7:00) Going live in December 2023 (9:00) Features within the app (10:30) Making booking guides easier (11:00) The LinkedIn for mountain people (12:30) Why ‘Oak’? (13:30)FEEDBACKIf you enjoyed this episode, or if you have any comments, please let me know. You can do that by leaving a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – or drop me an email to [email protected]. We’re also on WhatsApp.  Nicky Webber: "I really enjoyed listening to Episode 313. Your love of Chamonix is evident."Erin Flynn: "Episode 314 was a great listen! Loved testing Zag skis at the ski test!"  Judy Swens:“I’m spending part of my time off this July in Chamonix and loved your podcast episode about it.”There are now 316 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up with at www.theskipodcast.com – have a search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find something of interest to listen to.If you enjoyed this episode and you’d like to support the podcast, then you are very welcome to buy me a coffee at buymeacoffee.com/theskipodcast 
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  315: Chamonix Stories #2 | Silent Sessions 12.06.2026 16min

  In the second in our series of ‘Chamonix Stories’, we meet Katy McInnes from the ‘Silent Sessions’ project in Chamonix. ‘Silent Sessions’ is a unique experience that blends stunning natural locations in Chamonix with mindfulness and dancing.SHOW NOTESKaty is a ‘musician, dancer, restaurant owner and events planner turned yoga teacher’ (2:30)She previously ran restaurants in Chamonix (4:00)Mountains and Valleys Retreats (5:00) What is Silent Sessions? (6:00) Sourcing locations for Silent Sessions (7:15) “A cross between a mindfulness session and a rave” (8:30) Dance like no one’s watching (11:00) Connecting with nature (11:45)FEEDBACKIf you enjoyed this episode, or if you have any comments, please let me know. You can do that by leaving a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – or drop me an email to [email protected]. We’re also on WhatsApp. Louise Cotter: “Episode 312 was a fabulous listen."Susie Burt: “Episode 312 was excellent. Rachael was so interesting and funny to listen to. Keep up the good work."Jeremy Gibbon: “I absolutely LOVED your most recent episode on Chamonix. Thanks for all the time and effort that goes into putting together such an informative podcast. Can’t wait for the special interviews with different people from the valley.”Jay: “Great podcast, all year long! Please keep it up”There are now 315 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up with at www.theskipodcast.com. If you’d like to keep winter in your mind through the northern summer, then just have a search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find something of interest.If you enjoyed this episode and you’d like to support the podcast, then you are very welcome to buy me a coffee at buymeacoffee.com/theskipodcast 
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  314: Chamonix Stories #1 | Zag Skis 05.06.2026 15min

  Episode 314 is the first in our series of Chamonix Stories, today featuring Zag Skis. Iain spoke with head of marketing Alan Lemasson and head of R&D Bastien Saillard from the Chamonix-based freeride ski brand at their Argentiere 'Zag Lab' - where they make and test prototypes. We discuss the origins of Zag, the process of creating and testing new lines, sustainability and plans for the future. Zag has always been one of the most innovative ski brands, full of ideas and enthusiasm and I think that comes across in this interview.SHOW NOTESAlan Lemasson and Bastien Saillard from Zag Skis joined Iain for this interview (1:30)Why Zag test at the 'Zag Lab' in Chamonix (2:00)“Every ZAG model is smashed, thrashed, and put through the wringer” (3:00)The lead time for new models (6:00)Origins of the brand (7:00)Were Zag the first skis with rockers? (8:00)Winning the ISPO award (8:15)Julien Lopez won the Freeride World Tour on Zag Skis in 2009 (8:45)Topsheet designs (9:30)              Planned growth markets (10:30)‘ZAGreen’ sustainable construction (11:00)AROC is a the ‘brother of the Mata’ (13:00)FEEDBACKIf you enjoyed this episode, or if you have any comments, please let me know. You can do that by leaving a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – or drop me an email to [email protected]. We’re also on WhatsApp. Mandy Gourley: "Really interesting and packed with information! I definitely need to return to Chamonix as I’ve never seen the mural!"David Spendlove: "Great episode. Very informative."Millsy1976: “Loved the interviews with Tony McWilliam and Victoria Jamieson in Episode 309”EmmaintheGlens: “I just spent 6.5 hours binging old episodes of the podcast on my way from Perthshire down to the Manchester Snow Centre. The Erna Low and Bladon Lines episodes were fascinating.”There are over 300 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up with – all available at theskipodcast.com. Just have a search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find something you’ll find something of interest.If you enjoyed this episode and you’d like to support the podcast, then you are very welcome to buy me a coffee at buymeacoffee.com/theskipodcast 
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  313: Chamonix Mont-Blanc | More Than a Ski Resort 29.05.2026 57min

  Today we focus on one of the most famous resorts in the world – Chamonix Mont-Blanc. Host Iain Martin talks with Chamonix locals to get behind what makes this resort so special, from history to high mountain, glaciers to guides. Thanks to everyone who contributed to this episode, including Bernadette Tsuda, Brad Carlson, David Webster, Sam Haddad, Sasha Rayazantsev, Benoit Borrell, Sam Morton and Iona Halley, as well as Nathalie Tortora.SHOW NOTESBernadette Tsuda is a heritage guide in Chamonix William Windham and Richard Pococke ‘discover’ the Mer de Glace in 1741 (2:00)The statue of de Saussure and Jaques Balmat (5:00)The statue of Michel Paccard (7:40)The mural at Place des Alpes (12:00)Marie Paradis was the first woman to summit Mt Blanc in 1808 (12:30)How to qualify as a mountain guide, with Brad Carlsson (17:30)ENSA is the École Nationale de Ski et d'Alpinisme (19:00) How to become a member of the Compagnie des Guides de Chamonix (21:30) The ski areas (24:00) The Aiguille du Midi (27:00) Changes to the Vallee Blanche over the years, with David Webster (29:30) Dangers of crevasses, with Sam Haddad (31:00) The kit you need for glacier skiing, with Brad Carlsson (34:00) The Haute Route is a hut-to-hut ski touring route from Chamonix-Zermatt (37:00) The effects of climate change on the Vallee Blanche route (41:00) Visit the Glacorium (41:15) The impact of global warming on guides (41:45) The new Grands Montets lift, with Benoit Borrell (46:00) The Tour de Mont Blanc, with Sam Morton (49:30) Sam runs the Adventure Running Company (50:00) Changes in Chamonix from season workers to ‘daytrippers (51:00) Iona Hally runs Mountain Massage (53:00) Chambre Neuf and Elevation are both popular with locals (54:00FEEDBACKThere are over 300 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up with – all available at theskipodcast.com. Just have a search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find something you’ll find something of interest.If you enjoyed this episode, or if you have any comments, please let me know. You can do that by leaving a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – or drop me an email to [email protected]. We’re also on WhatsApp.If you enjoyed this episode and you’d like to support the podcast, then you are very welcome to buy me a coffee at buymeacoffee.com/theskipodcastAs well as this special episode, The Ski Podcast is going to run a series of ‘Chamonix Stories’, which will feature extended versions of some of the conversations featured here, plus others that I wasn’t able to include here. Look out for the first of those – a chat with Chamonix-based brand Zag Skis - coming up next week. 
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  312: Rachael Oakes-Ash, Founder Snowsbest.com 22.05.2026 48min

  Today’s special episode is an interview with Rachael Oakes-Ash – founder of the Southern Hemisphere’s leading snowsports website, Snowsbest.com. Rachael – aka Miss Snow It All – is also a best-selling author, publicist, documentary producer, social media guru and podcaster. In this interview, we speak about her experiences reporting from the Winter Olympics in Italy, raising $200,000 for Snow Aid Australia, her work to promote women in the snow industry and her journey from novice to ski expert.  This episode is the latest in an ongoing series of interviews with high-achieving women in the world of snowsports. Previous episodes in this series have included conversations with Vicky Gosling, CEO of GB Snowsport, BBC Ski Sunday’s Chemmy Alcott, the first person to ski the seven summits, Kit DesLauriers, founder of YSE Ski, Fiona Easdale, as well as the Team GB freestyle skiers Zoe Atkin and Kirsty Muir. SHOW NOTESWinter Olympics mention-itis (2:30)Comparing Livigno with Pyeongchang in 2018 (4:30)Empty slopes in Livigno (7:30)Working alongside Team Australia (10:00)Why were Australia so successful at the Winter Olympics? (14:00) Working with Dame Edna Everage (17:00)In 2000 Rachael wrote the book ‘Good Girls Do Swallow’ (19:00) Rachael’s second book was ‘Anything she can do, I can do better (19:00) Skiing with the prime minister of New Zealand (24:00) Becoming Miss Snow It All (26:00) Starting Snowsbest.com (26:45) Running consumer webinars (30:00) ‘Women of Winter Snow Australia’ working group (30:30) Advice for anyone wanting to get into ski journalism (32:30) ‘Snow Aid Australia’ (34:00)            Selwyn Snowfield burnt down during the 2020 bushfires (34:30) Snow Travel Expo (37:00) The threat of climate change (38:30) Thredbo and Coronet Peak have added ‘Snowfactory’ facilities (39:00) Will ‘Snowtunnel’ open at some point? (41:30)  Will Australia see a post-Olympics bump attendance (44:00)FeedbackYou can leave a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – our handle is @theskipodcast – or drop me an email to [email protected]. We’re also on WhatsApp.Mike Greenland: “Listened for years. Always excellent.”You are very welcome to buy me a coffee at buymeacoffee.com/theskipodcastWe have over 300 episodes in our back catalog – all available at theskipodcast.com. Just have a search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find something you’ll find something of interest.
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  311: Heliskiing in Albania, Champoluc & Chamonix’s Closing Day 08.05.2026 40min

  We find out what it’s like heliskiing in Albania, learn about the ski resort of Champoluc in Italy, and hear about the last ski day of the season in Chamonix.We also have snow reports from Cervinia in Italy and Les 2 Alpes and Tignes in France.Host Iain Martin was joined by freelance journalist Katie Bamber and Editor of Snow Magazine, Tris Kennedy. SHOW NOTESKatie previously shared her experience of touring the Alps in a camper van (in Episode 167), the Haute Route (in Episode 172) and Geilo in Norway in Episode 204 (1:30) She recently skied on the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier in Austria (2:45) Tris skied at Passo Tonale, which stays open until 03 May (4:15) Iain was at the Grands Montets for the closing day party (6:00) Check out the Pond Skim event video (7:00) Alex Armand from Tip Top Ski Coaching is in Les 2 Alpes (7:45) Floss Cockle from the YouTube channel FreeFloFloss is in Tignes (8:30) Dave Burrows from SnoPros Ski School was in Cervinia (10:30) Samuel Equy & Mathéo Jacquemoud set a new ski FKT for Chamonix to the top of Mont Blanc and back (13:30) You can watch their video here Jaquemoud set a time of of 13h27m49s for the Haute Route earlier in April (14:00) Where is Champoluc? (16:45) What’s the ski area like? (19:00) Ski 2 went out of business in 2021 (23:00) Al Morgan reported from the SIGB ski test in Champoluc in Episode 303 (23:30) Tris travelled with Heliski Albania (26:00) Where is Albania? (26:30) Who is Norman Wisdom? (28:00) How to get there? (29:00) Pristina has statues of Tony Blair and Bill Clinton (29:00) Valbona is in the ‘Accursed Mountains’ (31:00) You don’t (normally) need to jump out of the helicopter (32:00) What’s the terrain like? (33:30) Best time to go (35:30) Check Tris’s article in National Geographic (37:00)FeedbackYou can leave a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – our handle is @theskipodcast – or drop me an email to [email protected]. We’re also on WhatsAppAnon (Spotify): "309 was another fabulous episode bringing the mountains ever closer to all of us. Despite living in a ski resort myself [Morgins] I never fail to learn something new about life in my own backyard." Lucy Kings: "I’ve been an avid listener for some time. I’m particularly interested in your commitment to sustainable travel, championing the female voice and above all I love that The Ski Podcast has highlighted the issues of disability and improving access to skiing for young people by fundraising for Snow Camp." Antonia Simpson: "I was delighted to see Vars and Risoul featured in Episode 310. We’ve been going to the area for years. It’s a massively underrated region and it’s brilliant.”There are now 311 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up with in our back catalog – all available at theskipodcast.com. Just have a search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find something you’ll find something of interest to get you through until next winter.You can buy Iain a coffee at BuyMeACoffee.com
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  310: Risoul & Vars, X3 Triathlon in Courchevel & Ski Mindset Coaching 24.04.2026 43min

  Today we find out about the ski resorts of Risoul and Vars in France, report from the Dynastar X3 Triathlon in Courchevel and look at how you can improve your ski mindset. Host Iain Martin was joined by ski mindset coach, Lou Pode, and COO of The Ski Club of Great Britain and organiser of the London Snow Show, James Gambrill.  SHOW NOTESIain recently skied in Verbier (5:30)Alex Armand from Tip Top Ski Coaching is in Les 2 Alpes (6:30) Floss Cockle from the YouTube channel FreeFloFloss has been skiing in Val Thorens (7:00) Jen Tsang runs the website ThatsLaPlagne.com (9:30) Iain took part in the Dynastar X3 Triathlon in Courchevel (11:30) Lou learned to ski using the ski évolutif system in Les Arcs (15:00) Listen to Episode 229 for further discussion about female participation in skiing (18:00) Find out about Lou’s Ski Mindset Coaching (19:30) Lou can prepare you before their holiday (20:00) How to get there (26:00) Iain skied in Roccaraso, flying out to Naples (26:45) Size of the ski area (28:45) Who is it suitable for (33:00) James has been skiing twice this winter in Risoul and Vars (33:30)The Fashion Show is back at the London Snow Show for 2026 (35:00)There are also plans for to make Sunday a ‘Legends’ day (37:30)Find out more about the London Snow Show on their website (40:00) FeedbackIf you’ve enjoyed this episode you can leave a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – our handle is @theskipodcast – or drop me an email to [email protected] You can also join our WhatsApp channel for exclusive material released ahead of the podcastHelen Keast: "I just wanted to say how much I’ve been enjoying the podcast — I’ve listened to every episode and look forward to each new one. I especially love the features on different resorts, and I really enjoyed the equipment reviews at the start of the season and the Olympic coverage!" Emily Ruth Givens: "Love the podcast" Colin Tierney: "Gausta is another area in Norway I am looking at didn’t realise that was the area heavy water was made."Anna: "Thank you for the podcast! Just discovered and binged it driving across Newfoundland for a ski at Marble Mountain. I love the ski safari idea in Episode 307." Jan Claeren: "Thank you for the podcast - it's great to listen to and to travel with you and your guests"There are now 310 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up with. If you’d like to get some insight on a particular destination or the latest kit, just go to theskipodcast.com, have a search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find something you’ll find something of interest to get you through until next winter.Please do subscribe – it helps other people find us and you’ll never miss an episode. If you enjoy the podcast, you can always buy me a coffee at buymeacoffee.com/theskipodcast
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  309: La Clusaz, Candide Thovex's Skis & Verbier’s Ski Patrol 10.04.2026 46min

  We visit La Clusaz and find out about local freeride skier Candide Thovex’s new range of skis. We also go to Verbier to learn what it was like to become the first woman to work on their ski patrol.We have snow reports from Flaine in France, Via Lattea in Italy and St Anton in Austria, news on the class action lawsuit going on in the States and there’s a Team GB update as well. Host Iain Martin was joined by Victoria Jamieson, the first woman to join the Verbier ski patrol, and Tony McWilliam, the founder of Faction Skis and designer of Candide Thovex’s new line of skis. ---------Tirol in Austria sponsors The Ski Podcast, which means this winter we’re are finding out more about some of the great destinations in Tirol, and how you can connect with the Austrian way of life: ‘Lebensgefühl’ – that you’ll find there. --------- SHOW NOTESTony McWilliam is the founder of Faction Skis (2:00)Listen to Iain’s interview with Tony about his story Simon Burgess reports from Flaine (5:00) James and Sinead from Sauze Online are in the Via Lattea (7:00) Andy Butterworth from Kaluma Travel is in St Anton (8:30) A class action lawsuit has been filed against Vail Resorts and Alterra (11:00) Read the excellent analysis by Stuart Winchester from the Storm Skiing Podcast (11:15) Kirsty Muir, Charlotte Bankes & Zoe Atkin won Crystal Globes in Ski Slopestyle, Snowboard Cross and Ski Halfpipe (12:00) Jim Duncombe lives in La Clusaz and was co-founder of The Ski Podcast (12:30) The new black run is named after home town hero Candide Thovex (16:20)Check out Candide on YouTube… (16:30) Candide has said that La Balme taught him everything and shaped his skiing (16:45) Philippine Bories works for the La Clusaz tourist office (18:00) Listen to Iain’s previous interview with Tony (22:30) Tony first met Candide when he was 16 and signed him to Faction Skis later (23:30) Faction supplied him with 27 sets of skis for his epic ‘Ski The World’  video (25:00)Tony worked with Candide on his own range of skis (27:00) The design of the top sheets are very minimalist (29:00) Only 100 of the limited edition La Clusaz 101 were made (29:30) The construction of the skis (30:00) Tony now runs Forward Outdoor (32:30) Angelika Kaufmann spoke about her job blasting avalanches in Lech in Episode 270 (33:00) Victoria was the first woman to join the Verbier ski patrol in 2008 (34:00) The exams or qualifications required (37:00) Why blasting avalanches is so important (38:30)FeedbackYou can leave a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – our handle is @theskipodcast – or drop Iain an email to [email protected]. You can also follow us on our WhatsApp channel.andrewdickson: "Great interview with Tim Wall (Episode 299). I love the Ski Lodge and all the bands that have played there over the years. We will be back for our 21st visit next year.” James Rice: "Just downloaded Episode 308 (about Chamonix). Really looking forward to it."Sean Burton: “I just wanted to reiterate how much I enjoy the podcast.I discovered it after my first ski trip in January 2024 and have been listening avidly ever since.”There are now 309 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up with. If you’d like to get some insight on a particular destination or the latest kit, just go to theskipodcast.com, have a search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find something you’ll find something of interest.If you enjoy the podcast, you can always buy Iain a coffee at buymeacoffee.com/theskipodcast
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  308: Ski Mountaineering 101 in Chamonix, Sundance & the Best Refuges in the World 27.03.2026 52min

  We go on a ski touring adventure in Chamonix, staying an unmanned refuge at 3000m, and also take a closer look at some of the most spectacular Alpine refuges in the world. Plus we find out about the ski resort synonymous with Robert Redford – Sundance in Utah.We also learn of a post-Olympic spike in visitors to the UK’s snow centres, plus we have snow reports from Madesimo, Gausta and Les 2 Alpes, plus your feedback.--------- Tirol in Austria sponsors The Ski Podcast, which means this winter we’re are finding out more about some of the great destinations in Tirol, and how you can connect with the Austrian way of life: ‘Lebensgefühl’ – that you’ll find there. --------- SHOW NOTESKatja Gaskell was last on the show in Episode 242 when she reported on Saint Gervais (1:30) Aaron Rolph is founder of the British Adventure Collective (1:45) Aaron skied on the Dome de Miage (4:00) Claire Harrison reported from Madesimo in Italy (5:30)Mike Richards was in Gausta in Norway (6:45) Alex Armand from Tip Top Ski Coaching is in Les 2 Alpes (9:00) The new Entry/Exit System EES with the EU will scale up to 100% on 10 April (09:15)Freddy Carrick Smith picked up the silver in the slalom at the Junior World Championships (9:30) Ian Brown, MD of The Snow Centre, reports on a bump in traffic in both Hemel Hempstead & Manchester (10:00)Iain was guided by Brad Carlson on a ski mountaineering 101 trip (14:30)Iain stayed in the Bivouac de l'Envers des Dorées (17:30) Brad was on the podcast in Episode 240 discussing the impact of global warming on the Mer de Glace (18:30) The kit you need for ski mountaineering adventure (20:45) Aaron’s bookis ‘Alpine Refuges: The Architecture and Culture of Mountain Shelters’ (25:45) What is a bothy in Scotland? (26:45) What is an Alpine refuge? (28:30) Choosing the 30 refuges featured in the book (29:20) The Bivacco Gervasutti is one of Aaron’s favourites (31:00) The Hannibal Bivouac (32:00) Aaron has visited around 60 refuges (34:00) Aaron is the founder of the British Adventure Collective (34:30) European refuges v. North America (35:30)Sundance is famous for the film festival (38:00) Films that launched at Sundance include Reservoir Dogs, The Blair Witch Project, Get Out and Memento (39:00) Robert Redford bought it in 1968 (39:40) There is a focus on conservation (41:00) Redford felt it should be ‘“developed a little, preserved a lot” (41:30) The skiing (42:00) His ownership meant it developed as a hub for the arts (44:00) Who is Sundance suitable for? (47:00) FeedbackYou can leave a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – our handle is @theskipodcast – or drop me an email to [email protected] You can also follow us on WhatsApp for exclusive material released ahead of the podcast. Martyn Crawshaw: “I'm currently skiing in Champery, Switzerland which can be reached by rail direct via a funicular from the mainline station at Aigle”  seanski: "It’s such a great podcast and look forward to it every week, I've been particularly inspired by your series on the Tirol, and as I write I'm en route by train to Landeck" Linley Lewis: "Just wanted to drop you a line let you know I greatly enjoyed your Ste Foy episode. Ste Foy has become an annual pilgrimage for my family. It's an absolute gem and I think you summed up its joy perfectly." Claire: "We have just returned from a week in Fugen in the Zillertal after listening to your feature in Episode 272. We were very impressed with the ski area: the efficiency of the transport, range of slopes, wonderful mountain "hutte" and friendly hospitality everywhere. We will be back for sure!"Colin Tierney: “I love skiing in Austria: you could do a different resort every winter without ever having to repeat.”There are now 308 episodes of The Ski Podcast to catch up with and 187 of those have been listened to in the last week, including interviews with Winter Olympians such as Andrew Musgrave, Eddie The Eagle, Dave Ryding, Graham Bell, both Izzy and Zoe Atkin, Chemmy Alcott, Bode Miller and Kirsty Muir. If you’d like to listen to an interview with an athlete, get some insight on a particular destination, or find out about the latest kit, just go to theskipodcast.com, have a search around the tags and categories and you’re bound to find something of interest to listen to. If you’d like to help the podcast, there are three things you can do:    -          follow us, or subscribe, so you never miss an episode   -          give us a review on Apple Podcasts or leave a comment on Spotify   -          save yourself some money by using the code ‘SKIPODCAST’ when you book using this link