From the Great Central Fire

Kate Downey

On a perfect summer afternoon on Rainy Lake, Jeff sits down with longtime camp mom and staffer Kate Downey to talk about what happens when camp becomes part of your family’s DNA. Kate and her husband, Tim, have spent years at camp, and Kate has done a little bit of everything along the way, from the food room and laundry to nearly a decade behind the camera as camp photographer. Now with three campers, Kate has seen camp from just about every angle. She and Jeff talk about the hard trips, homesickness, friendships back home, emotional returns to the dock, and the strange experience of sending your kids into the wilderness and then hearing…nothing. It’s a conversation about letting go, growing up, getting uncomfortable, and why sometimes the best update a camp parent can get is no update at all. Presented by the Camping & Education Foundation. Music by Alice Peacock. Produced by Unbridled Media.

Austin & Mary Ganzenmuller

From a houseboat on Rainy Lake, Jeff reconnects with longtime camp family Austin and Mary Ganzenmuller to discuss their deep ties to Camp Kooch and Ogichi, their careers, and their life building a new cabin nearby after nine summers living on their floating “Wanagan.” They share family history in the Simmons legacy, iconic canoe trips like the English River, and how camp shaped their children. Mary describes her role as chair of the Kooch Board, also touch on Austin’s captain’s license, the recent sauna build, and enduring camp friendships. Presented by the Camping & Education Foundation. Music by Alice Peacock. Produced by Unbridled Media.

Harrison Butler

Recorded at Thunderbird Lodge on Rainy Lake during camp’s final week, this episode features a conversation with longtime Camp Kooch camper and staffer Harrison Butler. Harrison shares how his family’s camp connection began through his father (a former camper and staffer), all the way through his return and his upcoming role helping launch the Urban Wilderness program in Chicago. The discussion really dives into senior trips—Knife, Seal, Caribou, and the Fond du Lac. He touches on why Churchill remains a rite of passage, practical gear debates (wanigans vs. monkey barrels, water treatment), along with stories of legendary trippers and the future of the senior camp.

David Kahn

Our latest episode features longtime Camp Koochiching alumnus David Kahn, captured in person at his Northern Kentucky cottage. Kahn traces his family’s connections to Camp Fairwood, Keewadin, and Kooch, recalls starting camp in 1968 (including the swim test, a flooded summer, and cabin life), and explains why he skipped intermediate years after a difficult Canal Bay attempt before returning for major trips like the Fond du Lac, including a chaotic bus breakdown and box-truck ride home. He describes being selected for the first Seal River/Hudson Bay “moonshot” trip as a CIT, shares lessons about perseverance and teamwork, tells how he got the nickname “Rat,” and recounts a town boy mail mishap and a memorable Don Frazier hornet-nest incident. Kahn also outlines his broadcast career from the 1980 Winter Olympics to MLB Productions and later golf work, reflects on his sons’ long camp tenures, and emphasizes supporting the camp’s future despite organizational ups and downs. Presented by the Camping & Education Foundation. Music by Alice Peacock. Produced by Unbridled Media.

Joan Heinle

Jeff visits with Joan Heinle at her Rainy Lake home to talk about her International Falls upbringing, summers on Grindstone and Bald Rock, and how she met her husband Tim when he unexpectedly showed up for a movie date in the early 1960s in the Falls. Joan shares stories from Tim’s role as camp director, their camp life, camaraderie among married staff, and pranks and traditions on “the Point.” Joan also talks about a crazy cabin fire, losing her class ring and later passing a classmate’s ring to the Eichler family, and the lasting impact of camp trips and the eight-week program. Peacock

Pete Pfeffer

Recorded on Rainy Lake during an extensive restoration of the Kooch II, Jeff reconnects with longtime friend Pete Pfeffer at Camp Kooch to trace Pete’s many “lives” at camp: as a childhood point kid in the 1960s through family connections, as staff starting in 1983 in Prep and later Junior camp, and later returning for Boys in Winter and father-son trips. They share memories of classic Turtle River and Quetico tripping, cabin life, favorite camp people, and humorous travel and staff stories involving Chuck Eichler, Steve Upson, Tim Heinle, and a crazy night at Sha Sha. The conversation turns serious as they discuss changes to the Native American program, emphasizing that tripping remains the camp’s backbone, and reflecting on leadership, adapting to modern realities, and the lasting friendships camp builds. Listen today! Presented by the Camping & Education Foundation. Music by Alice Peacock. Produced by Unbridled Media.

Annabel & Chris Weil

From the Great Central Fire, Jeff Coleman hosts the show’s first parent-child episode with Camp Kooch alum Chris Weil and his daughter Annabel Weil of Ogichi. They share their camp backgrounds, including memories of Kooch cabin days, trips like the English, the old Back Bay zip line, and Annabel finding Chris’s name carved at Johnny Hightower on a Turtle River trip. They preview the 35-day “Edge of the Atlantic” expedition, discuss planning, fundraising success, sponsors, wildlife precautions, satellite tracking, and the value of being tech-free in the wilderness. Presented by the Camping & Education Foundation. Music by Alice Peacock. Produced by Unbridled Media.

Sara Upson

Jeff chats with former Camp Ogichi camper and staff member Sarah Upson about life in Cincinnati, where she works as a clinical microbiologist, and her path from Colorado State to Ohio State after reconsidering vet school. Sarah reflects on her years at Ogichi (camper 2010–2016; staff 2017–2020), witnessing the camp’s growth from the old Rainy Lake Lodge buildings to newer facilities, and shares her favorite canoe trips including the Bloodvein, English River, and a Cochrane River trip. She recalls camp traditions, leadership lessons and stories from director Kathy Dix, and the LDAC program’s whitewater training. Sarah and Jeff also discuss the family Farm in Adams County, memorable family experiences, her late father’s spirit and resilience, and hopes to return north to see new camp additions. Music by Alice Peacock. Produced by Unbridled Media.

Trace Dunning

In this episode, Jeff interviews Trace Dunning, director of the Urban Wilderness program, director of Owakonze, and new assistant director for Camp Kooch-i-ching morning programs. Trace shares how he first came to camp from Cincinnati, his years as a camper and staff member, and how support for his brother helped his family continue attending. He explains the Urban Wilderness program’s origins in 2013, and its rapid growth. With chapters in Cincinnati and Minneapolis, the program now completes roughly 45 builds and expects to reach about 4,000 students. He also reflects on his Centennial Arctic trip and his recent wedding! Music by Alice Peacock. Produced by Unbridled Media. Presented by the Camping & Education Foundation.

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Bill Johnson (BJ)

In this episode of From the Great Central Fire, Jeff visits Bill “BJ” Johnson at his home in Cincinnati to share stories from 77 years connected to camp. BJ recounts starting at Camp Fairwood in 1947, being recruited through the Wasaka Boys Club, becoming a counselor, and returning in 1964 to run Intermediate Camp for 20 years. He explains the origins and rules of the Intermediate “spot game” and gauntlet, memories of Cabin 14, and the use of food coloring in meals during trips. BJ details pioneering trips, including the Bloodvein route (1967–68), how “BJ’s Pothole” got its name through fishing, and evolving logistics on Lake Winnipeg. He also describes building the dining hall in six weeks under the direction of John Holden and reflects on why he still returns each summer. Music by Alice Peacock. Produced by Unbridled Media.

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Rob & Mike Walsh

In this first "two-guest episode" of From the Great Central Fire, Jeff talks with longtime Camp Kooch campers and staff Mike and Robbie Walsh. The conversation covers how camp shaped their resilience and professional life, and they invite listeners to participate by sending voice memos or joining the podcast. They also have a lot of laughs with Coles. Music by Alice Peacock. Produced by Unbridled Media.

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Meredith Freshley - New Co-Director of Ogichi Daa Kwe

In this episode, host Jeff and Hugh Haller introduce Meredith Freshley, the new director of Ogichi Daa Kwe. Meredith shares who recruited her to camp in 2006, how a first Turtle River trip sparked her passion for canoe camping, and what she’s done since—studying social work at UW–Madison, completing a NOLS Patagonia trip, working in wilderness therapy in Bend, Oregon, and earning a master’s and license in special education before moving to Duluth. She reflects on key mentors, her favorite trips, and the planning and impact of the first women’s Arctic trip in 2017, “6 North of 60.” Meredith also discusses her roles at camp, her standout rowing career, her perspective on lifelong community, and how becoming a mom shapes her approach to camp and families. Music by Alice Peacock. Produced by Unbridled Media.

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Jim MacAllister - New Co-Director of Camp Kooch-i-ching

In this special episode we get to know Jim McAllister, Camp Kooch-i-ching’s new Director of Camper Experience and Development. With special co-host Hugh Haller, President of the Camping and Education Foundation. Jim reflects on his path since leaving camp in the 1990s: studying business at the University of Arizona; moving to Whitefish, Montana to open the Paddle & Axe Saloon; launching a fly-fishing guide service and guiding in Alaska; and building a 20-year career at NRS, rising from customer service to Director of Sales while witnessing the company’s transition to an employee-owned ESOP under founder Bill Parks. He also shares his return to Scottsdale to help grow and sell his family’s sales and marketing agency, his brief work with Duck Camp expanding national retail accounts, and his continued connection to camp through sponsoring Arctic trips and serving on the board for four years. The conversation revisits camp traditions and memories—from Cabin 9 and the Token Card race to canoe trips, the Saturka Society, and Red Lodge with Hank Bangert—along with friendships with Troy Balcer and others. Jim and the hosts reflect on mentorship and legacy, especially Tim Heinle and the Pohl family. In the episode, Jim discusses his first camp memory, pride in earning Astra, his role models, advice to his 8-year-old self, and his excitement for the summer ahead: building lifelong relationships and welcoming a new generation into the camp community. Presented by the Camping & Education Foundation. Music by Alice Peacock. Produced by Unbridled Media.

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Jesse Blair

Join us in this episode of the Great Central Fire podcast as we sit down with Jesse Blair, a cherished figure from Camp Kooch's history. Jesse shares his journey from a camper in the early '70s to a beloved staff member in the '80s. He recounts his initial days at camp, intriguing anecdotes about his camp friends, adventurous trips including the Seal River, and unforgettable camp memories. We delve into stories of animal encounters, his winters in International Falls, and loon calls. This episode is a heartwarming trip down memory lane packed with laughter, camaraderie, and timeless camp tales!

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Katherine Heinle

In this episode of 'The Great Central Fire,' we have the pleasure of hosting Katherine Heinle, as she takes us down memory lane, sharing family connections and life anecdotes. From her early days as a "point kid" to her adventures as an Ogichi camper, Katherine recounts funny stories, pranks, and life lessons from numerous trips. She also gives us an exclusive look into the upcoming Edge of the Atlantic Arctic Trip, shedding light on the excitement and meticulous planning behind it. Sit back and enjoy! Music by Alice Peacock. Produced by Unbridled Media.

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Jeff Keller

In this special episode, we welcome Jeff Keller, a cherished family friend and a veteran staff member from the 1960s. Jeff reminisces about the early days of the Wasaka Boys Club in Cincinnati, his journey to Camp Kooch, and the impactful experiences that shaped his early years. From his first trip with Stub Muhl to challenging canoe adventures, Jeff shares captivating stories and the lasting camaraderie formed at camp. Join us as we delve into Jeff's nostalgic memories and the enduring importance of summer camps for today's youth.

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Hugh Haller

In this episode of From the Great Central Fire, we sit down with Hugh Haller, current CEO and President of the Camping and Education Foundation. Hugh shares personal and professional stories about his journey from being a camper in the early 70s to leading the organization today. We delve into stories from Hugh's early days at Kooch, changes to the Native American program, and the expansion of the camp's reach through the Urban Wilderness program. Join us for an insightful conversation about leadership, legacy, and the evolving landscape of camp life. Music by Alice Peacock. Episode Produced by Unbridled Media.

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Kathy Dix

Join us as we sit down with Kathy Dix, the founding director of Ogichi, to uncover the captivating story behind the inception and growth of this remarkable girls' camp. Kathy shares the evolution of Ogichi, discussing the early days, the formation of the Grateful Circle, and the fascinating tales from the inaugural canoe trips. Discover Kathy's unique philosophy on camp meals, the integral roles of key contributors, and the community spirit that has helped make Ogichi a beloved institution. This insightful and heartwarming conversation explores the challenges, triumphs, and the lasting impact of Ogichi on its campers and staff.

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George Simmons

In our second episode of The Great Central Fire, join our host Jeff Coleman for a conversation with George Simmons, an alum and former board member of Camp Kooch. George shares his journey into the camp community back in the 1950s, recounting funny, memorable stories, including flipping a canoe and Arctic expeditions. Listen as he reminisces about key figures he admired, the origins of Ogichi, and friendship ties that span generations. You'll learn about Camp Kooch's rich history and the impact it has had on countless lives. Don't miss George's heartfelt tribute to John Holden and his vision of inclusivity that has shaped the camp's progress. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this trip down memory lane. Episode Produced by Unbridled Media. Incidental music by Alice Peacock.

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Jamie Varley

In this inaugural episode of The Great Central Fire podcast, Jeff Coleman sits down with Jamie Varley, a camper from 1989 to 1995 and staff member from 1996 to 2000. Jamie shares unique stories about his Uncle Potter Varley, fishing with Stub, and reflections on overcoming challenges on canoe trips. They also discuss the deep bonds formed at camp, the lifelong friendships they maintain, and the positive impact these experiences have on their professional lives. And some laughs. 00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:47 Starting the Podcast Journey 01:50 Jamie Varley's Camp Memories 02:58 Life After Camp 04:54 Cabin Six Adventures 08:10 Intermediate Camp and Family Legacy 17:09 Fishing with Stub Mall 20:27 First Canoeing Trip Experience 25:24 Reflecting on Camp Friendships 27:30 The Emotional Farewell 29:59 Camp Memories and Impactful Moments 31:24 Lessons in Adversity 36:42 The Value of Camp Experiences 39:57 Staying Connected with Camp Friends 42:44 The Unique Bond of Camp Alumni 47:17 Final Thoughts and Future Plans Produced by Unbridled Media. Incidental Music by Alice Peacock.