In this episode of the Mushing Podcast, Robert Forto sits down with Tone Coughlin of Endurance Kennels in Duluth, Minnesota, to pull back the curtain on the realities of sled dog culture. They discuss the differences between sprint racing Alaskan Huskies and the stereotypical “Disney dogs,” how selective breeding has shaped performance, and why public education is crucial for the sport's future. Tony shares insights from growing his kennel, building a massive TikTok following, and balancing tradition with modern challenges, such as climate change and social media trolls.

Whether you’re a seasoned musher or new to the sport, this conversation offers a raw, authentic look at what it takes to raise, train, and advocate for sled dogs today.

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Trail Bytes 2025

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In this episode, we sit down with Maine musher Jonathan Hayes to relive the Centennial Seppala Expedition across Alaska, a journey that tested both human grit and canine heart. From the harrowing winds of the coast to the untold lessons learned on the trail, Jonathan shares raw stories of survival, leadership, and the enduring spirit of Seppala Siberians. This is part one of our series diving deep into one of the most ambitious expeditions of our time.

The Mushing podcast is made possible by Mushing+ subscribers. Learn more about all the benefits of a subscription and subscribe now at mushing.com/mushingplus

Our fans would love to learn more about you. Fill out our Musher Q & A here

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Trail Bytes 2025

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In this episode of the Mushing Podcast, hosts Greg and Jen share their journey into the world of dog sledding, discussing their backgrounds, current activities, and future aspirations in the sport. They delve into training techniques, the dynamics of their dog team, and the importance of community and networking within the mushing scene. The conversation also highlights personal stories about their dogs, Eska and Polar, showcasing the bond between mushers and their canine companions. The episode concludes with a look ahead to upcoming races and the excitement of the mushing community.

Takeaways

• Mushing is a unique blend of teamwork and outdoor adventure.
• Training techniques vary significantly between sprint and long-distance racing.
• Building a dog team requires careful consideration of each dog's strengths and weaknesses.
• Networking within the mushing community is crucial for success.
• Personal stories about dogs can highlight the emotional connection in mushing.
• The Iditarod is a significant goal for many mushers, including Greg and Jen.
• Canicross and ski-joring are great entry points into the mushing world.
• The terrain and weather conditions greatly affect training and racing.
• Community events and races foster camaraderie among mushers.
• The bond between mushers and their dogs is central to the sport.

Sound Bites

• "I got started with my Australian shepherd."
• "I kind of took that as a challenge."
• "Good luck to you in your upcoming season."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Mushing and the Guests

04:31 Backgrounds and Early Experiences in Mushing

09:14 Current Mushing Activities and Future Aspirations

13:45 Training Techniques and Dog Team Dynamics

18:31 Networking and Community in the Mushing Scene

22:54 Stories from the Trail: Eska and Polar

25:02 Conclusion and Future Endeavors

The Mushing podcast is made possible by Mushing+ subscribers. Learn more about all the benefits of a subscription and subscribe now at mushing.com/mushingplus

Our fans would love to learn more about you. Fill out our Musher Q & A here

Do you have a story idea, or pitch a podcast? Check it out here

Trail Bytes 2025

Facebook | X | Instagram

Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share

Sign up for our Newsletter HERE

We would love to hear your feedback about the show!

You can contact us here: Podcast@mushing.com