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Team & Trail

Dr. Robert and Michele Forto

Team & Trail is dog mushing, outdoor leadership, and trail stories from Alaska and beyond. Dr. Robert and Michele Forto produce this podcast for people who work with dogs, lead teams, and spend real time outdoors.

The podcast carries a reporting tradition that began in 1963 and brings it back to the trail. Mushing life. Training partnerships. How a family business hands the work to the next person. How a team carries a load when the weather changes and the plan has to change with it. Field reports, gear that holds up, and conversations with the people actually out there.

Team & Trail is a project of the Team and Trail Foundation, a 501(c)(3). We help people go places and do good things: keep the sled dog record intact, teach leadership where decisions have consequences, and remove barriers that keep people off the trail.

New episodes from Willow, Alaska, and beyond.

https://teamandtrail.com
https://mushing.com
https://teamandtrail.com/team-and-trail-foundation

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22 episodes
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Avg 17 min
English

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Episodes 22

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S3 · E13
October 21 · 5 min
The Long Road to Estes Park | Team & Trail Podcast
Michele Forto traces the November route before Robert rolls: Metallica at Sphere on Saturday, noon Sunday out of the lights, Bryce Canyon that night, coffee in Tropic and Highway 12 toward Moab, Arches or Island in the Sky, I-70 through Glenwood Canyon, Carbondale coffee, Estes Park from the east because Trail Ridge is likely closed. Then the Association for Experiential Education conference at the YMCA of the Rockies, November 12–14. This is not a travelogue. Team & Trail did not build a 501(c)(3) to post sunsets. The parks on that corridor: Zion, Bryce, Capitol Reef, Arches, Canyonlands, Glenwood Canyon, Rocky Mountain National Park, are public classrooms. If the people teaching on that land are underfunded, exhausted, or performing instead of practicing, the land pays, and so do the kids who get one first trip. Michele’s ask: support programs that still work when the founder is not on the sled and the weather is not pretty. If you know an organization doing honest outdoor leadership on a thin budget, send them to the Foundation. Field notes: teamandtrail.com Conference: aee.org (ASCEND: Growing Community, Elevating Practice)
S3 · E12
September 14 · 2 min
Removing Barriers: The Lead Dog Access Program
Team and Trail exists to remove barriers and help more people get outdoors. This episode opens with the next step in that mission. The Team and Trail Foundation is accepting applications for the Lead Dog Access Program. Each year the Foundation supports up to six individuals through the complete Lead Dog service dog curriculum at a discounted rate of $9,600, paid to the Foundation. Selected teams receive the full training experience, not a shortened program. We give priority to veterans and individuals living with PTSD, people with mobility, psychiatric, or autism-related disabilities, and applicants from rural Alaska and other underserved communities. Apply here: https://teamandtrail.com/lead-dog-access-program/ Questions: explore@teamandtrail.org Help underwrite placements: https://donorbox.org/team-and-trail-foundation-ldap Free public workshops on service dog partnership, outdoor access, and leadership through the human–dog team will be announced soon.
S3 · E11
August 22 · 2 min
The Fall Tour Kicks Off in September
The Team & Trail Fall Tour is hitting the road. In this episode, Michele Forto shares what’s ahead as Robert prepares for a Northern Route drive from Seattle to the New York area in September 2026. The trip will cover thousands of miles over a couple of weeks, with Podcast Movement in New York serving as the main professional stop along the way. But Team & Trail is making the miles part of the mission. Throughout the journey, Robert will host informal coffee meetups in select towns along the route. No presentations. No formal agenda. Just a chance to sit down, meet people, and talk about the trails we’re all navigating, from outdoor adventures and work projects to the decisions that shape where we go next. The trip will also include stops at places like Glacier National Park, the Badlands, and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, while documenting what a long-distance working road trip actually looks like. If you’re somewhere along the Northern Route this September, keep an eye on Team & Trail. We might be coming through your town.
S3 · E10
August 8 · 4 min
Looking Ahead to Transylvania: Halloween 2028
Team & Trail is heading to Transylvania for Halloween 2028. In this episode, Michele Forto shares an early look at an eight-day journey through Romania built around the history of Vlad the Impaler, the real figure behind the Dracula legend. The adventure will take Robert and Michele through medieval towns, historic sites, Romanian folklore, and three special Halloween nights, including a celebration at Bran Castle. But this trip is about more than Dracula. Michele talks about their longtime love of horror and Halloween, the opportunity to separate Vlad's history from the legend that followed, and how exploring a place shaped by history, folklore, and challenging landscapes connects with the mission of the Team & Trail Foundation. The trip may still be two years away, but the adventure has officially begun.
S3 · E9
July 26 · 8 min
Celebrating America's 250th Birthday: An Oregon Coast Road Trip to Cannon Beach, Astoria, and Lewis & Clark
What better way to celebrate America's 250th birthday than with a road trip along one of the country's most beautiful coastlines? In this episode of Team and Trail, Michele Forto shares the story of an unforgettable Independence Day adventure to the Oregon Coast. Alongside Robert, Chaser, and Dream, the journey included flying kites on Cannon Beach, standing beneath the iconic Haystack Rock, exploring filming locations from The Goonies in Astoria, and reflecting on the legacy of Lewis and Clark at the National Historical Park. The trip also included one of the best barbecue meals they've ever experienced at the Cannon Beach Smokehouse and countless reminders that the best adventures are about more than the destination. They're about the memories you make along the way. Whether you're planning your own Oregon Coast vacation or looking for inspiration for your next road trip, this episode is filled with ideas, history, and stories from the trail.
S3 · E8
July 12 · 8 min
Our First Indianapolis 500: A Bucket List Adventure to the Greatest Spectacle in Racing
What happens when you finally check one of the biggest items off your travel bucket list? In this episode of Team and Trail, Michele Forto shares the story of her and Robert's first trip to the legendary Indianapolis 500. From the incredible traditions at Indianapolis Motor Speedway to witnessing one of the closest finishes in race history, this weekend became much more than simply attending a race. The adventure continued at Indiana Beach, one of America's classic amusement parks, where nostalgic charm and unforgettable roller coasters created another highlight of the trip. Along the way, Michele reflects on why travel matters, how shared experiences strengthen relationships, and why every adventure begins with saying yes. Whether you're a racing fan, roller coaster enthusiast, or someone planning your next road trip, this episode is full of inspiration for your own bucket list.
S3 · E7
May 17 · 40 min
Inside Alaska Off-Road Expedition: How to Build a Custom Backcountry Trip
What does it really take to build a world-class off-road expedition in Alaska? In this episode of the Team & Trail Podcast, Robert sits down with Cooper to break down Alaska Off-Road Expedition, a business designed to unlock remote Alaska for travelers who want more than a typical vacation. From guided overland trips and custom itineraries to camping in the backcountry and partnering with local excursion providers, this conversation dives into how adventure, logistics, and leadership all come together. They discuss who these trips are really for, what a multi-day expedition looks like, the realities of Alaska travel, and how experiences are built around the client. If you have ever thought about exploring Alaska beyond the road system, this episode gives you a clear look at what that actually involves. Alaska Offroad Expedition
S3 · E6
May 3 · 38 min
Traveling Solo vs Group Off-Roading in Alaska: Risks, Communication, and Trail Lessons
In this episode of the Team & Trail Podcast, Robert and Cooper break down the real-world differences between traveling solo and going with a group on off-road adventures in Alaska. From risk management and mechanical failures to communication systems and group dynamics, they share firsthand stories and practical advice for beginners and experienced explorers alike. You’ll hear why most problems compound quickly in the backcountry, how communication tools like GMRS radios and satellite devices can make or break a trip, and why group travel is often the best starting point for new off-roaders. Whether you’re planning your first trip or refining your expedition strategy, this episode offers grounded insight from the trail.
S3 · E5
April 18 · 34 min
Easter Jeep Safari, Overland Expo & Alaska Off-Road Adventures
In this episode of the Team & Trail Podcast, Robert Forto and Cooper discuss Cooper’s recent trip to the legendary Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah. They talk about what the event is really like, renting Jeeps in Moab, trail experiences, and lessons learned for building the Alaska Off-Road Expeditions. They also preview Overland Expo events across the country and discuss the upcoming Alaska 4x4 Meet & Greet in Wasilla. If you love Jeeps, overlanding, off-roading, and Alaska adventure travel, this episode is for you.
S3 · E4
April 10 · 50 min
Behind the Lens: How Great Photographers Think on the Trail
Most people only see the finished image. The clean shot. The moment that made it to social media. What they don’t see is everything behind it. In this episode of the Team & Trail Podcast, we sit down with Keela McCleneghan from Sunshine and Photo, whose work lives at the intersection of dog mushing, overlanding, and storytelling. Her perspective goes beyond photography. It is about awareness, positioning, and making real-time decisions when conditions shift and nothing goes according to plan. We talk about what it takes to capture high-speed sled dog teams, how environment shapes creative decisions, and why the difference between average and exceptional often comes down to how well you read the moment in front of you. This conversation is for anyone operating in environments where there is no script, on the trail, in the field, or in leadership.
S3 · E5
April 6 · 8 min
Leadership Through Adventure: Announcing the Team & Trail Expedition
Leadership is often taught in controlled environments, but real leadership rarely happens that way. In this episode, we introduce the Team & Trail Expedition, a 2027 journey from Willow to Nome designed to explore leadership through real-world challenges. At the center of the project is a Leadership Fellowship that gives college students access to decision-making as it unfolds on the trail.
S3 · E3
March 29 · 36 min
Essential Off-Roading and Overlanding Gear for Alaska: Tents, Solar Power, and Off-Road Equipment
Exploring Alaska by vehicle requires a very different approach to gear than overlanding in the Lower 48. In this episode of the Team & Trail Podcast, Robert Forto and Cooper DeDycker break down the essential equipment needed to travel safely and comfortably through Alaska’s extreme environments. We chat about everything from layering systems for unpredictable weather to shelter options like rooftop tents and alternative setups such as pop-up camp cubes. Cooper shares practical insights from his experience running Alaska Off-Road Expeditions and working in the off-road industry, including which gear actually performs well in the field. The episode also explores modern overlanding technology, including portable power systems, solar panels, and Starlink satellite internet for remote travel. Robert and Cooper also discuss traction boards, recovery gear choices, and how brand reputation in the off-road world doesn’t always equal the best performance.
S3 · E2
March 15 · 38 min
Mastering Recoveries: What a Proper 4-Wheeling Rescue Looks Like
Vehicle recoveries are one of the most important skills every off-road driver should understand, yet many people hit the trail without the proper knowledge or gear. In this episode of the Team & Trail Podcast, Robert Forto and Cooper DeDycker dive deep into real-world recovery techniques used in Alaska’s rugged terrain. The conversation covers the fundamentals of safe winching, the proper use of kinetic ropes and recovery straps, and the importance of assessing the situation before attempting a pull. Cooper also shares a dramatic story of assisting a stranded truck near the Canadian border in extreme sub-zero temperatures, highlighting how quickly things can go wrong in remote environments. Along the way, they discuss the differences between Jeep and Toyota off-road rigs, the importance of gear maintenance in Alaska’s brutal winters, and the must-have recovery tools every overlander should carry. Whether you are new to off-roading or a seasoned trail driver, this episode offers practical advice and real experience from the Alaska backcountry.
S3 · E1
March 1 · 48 min
Alaska Offroad Expedition: Route Planning, Recovery Costs, and Gear You Actually Need | Team & Trail
If you're dreaming about an Alaska overland or Jeep expedition, this episode is your starting line. In this kickoff episode of the new Team & Trail expedition series, Robert Forto is joined by Cooper DeDycker, owner of Alaska Off-Road Expedition and works at Trail Toyz, off-road specialists, to break down what it really takes to explore Alaska safely and confidently. They cover: • How to plan multi-day Jeep routes using Gaia GPS and OnX Offroad • Public land access and what off-roaders get wrong about boundaries • Legendary Alaska trails like Knik Glacier, Hatcher Pass, and Eureka • The real cost of vehicle recovery in remote terrain • Seasonal challenges unique to Alaska • Must-have off-road mods (winch, lockers, tire size recommendations) • Emergency gear every Alaskan overlander should carry • The truth about budgeting for expedition travel Whether you're a weekend warrior with a Tacoma or planning a once-in-a-lifetime Alaska adventure, this episode lays the groundwork. Alaska is the last frontier. But it demands preparation.
S2 · E16
Dec 4, 2025 · 9 min
Road Tripping the Sled Dog Jeep: Valdez, McCarthy, and the Kennecott Mine
In this week’s episode of the Team & Trail Podcast, Michele Forto takes you along for an unforgettable Alaska loop road trip in the Sled Dog Jeep. The journey runs from Willow to Valdez, across Thompson Pass, into Wrangell St. Elias National Park, and deep into McCarthy and the historic Kennecott Mine. If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to explore some of Alaska’s most remote and rugged corners, this episode brings you right into the passenger seat. You’ll hear about the waterfalls of Valdez, glacier views along the Glenn Highway, Fourth of July celebrations in McCarthy, the raw history of the abandoned Kennecott Mine, and the small-town magic of late-night music and a community play staged inside a bar. From fat-bike rides to meeting young mushers building their kennel on the edge of the park, this is Alaska storytelling at its best. Stick around until the end for details on how to access our members-only bonus feed, packed with trip reports, lectures, and raw training runs. Learn more at teamandtrail.com
S2 · E15
Nov 25, 2025 · 4 min
Why Team & Trail Became a Nonprofit: The Future of Mushing, Leadership, and Outdoor Storytelling
This episode tells the full story behind the transformation of Team & Trail and Mushing Magazine into a nonprofit foundation. Michele talks honestly about the financial strain, the collapse of the ad model, and how a once-beloved passion project began to feel like a failing business. She explains why the solution wasn’t scaling back, but rebuilding everything from the ground up. Why a Nonprofit Outdoor media, especially niche print storytelling, can’t survive on advertising alone. The Team & Trail Foundation was created to protect the legacy of mushing culture while expanding leadership education, experiential learning, and access for youth across Alaska. What Lives Inside the New Foundation Print issues of Mushing Magazine (4 times per year for members) Leadership and experiential learning courses Corporate team-building weekends University partnerships Micro-grants for kids in rural Alaska Training and mentorship through sled dogs A thriving members-only feed with trip reports, training runs, and full lectures Membership A $50 membership (or $45 for Alaskans) keeps the mission alive. Members support sled-dog education, print storytelling, and new opportunities for young mushers. They also receive bonus content, additional podcast feeds, and behind-the-scenes stories. Why This Matters This shift isn’t the end of anything. It’s the beginning of the next chapter in preserving wild-place leadership, mushing history, and the stories that have shaped this community for 16 years.
S1 · E14
Feb 1, 2025 · 20 min
Mushing Adventures: Covering the Yukon Quest Alaska
In this episode of the Mushing podcast, Robert Forto shares his experiences covering the Yukon Quest Alaska, detailing the challenges posed by the weather, the excitement of the race, and the community surrounding dog mushing. He reflects on the changes in the race format, the mushers participating, and the impact of the winter conditions on the sport. The episode concludes with a look ahead to future races and the ongoing passion for mushing in Alaska. Takeaways The Yukon Quest Alaska is a significant event in the mushing community. Weather conditions have drastically affected mushing activities this winter. The 550-mile race format is a new and exciting development. Community support is vital for the success of dog sled races. Mushers come from diverse backgrounds and experiences. The atmosphere at the Yukon Quest was filled with excitement and anticipation. Radio coverage of the race provided a unique perspective. The history of the serum run is an important part of mushing lore. Future races may face challenges due to current weather conditions. The passion for mushing continues to thrive despite obstacles. 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
S1 · E13
Nov 11, 2024 · 6 min
Team and Trail Archives Launch
This conversation introduces the exciting world of mushing and the recent developments surrounding the Team and Trail magazine. The hosts discuss their commitment to providing in-depth coverage of sled dog racing, the launch of new magazine issues, and the importance of community engagement in the sport. Listeners are encouraged to subscribe and participate in the mushing community.
S1 · E12
Nov 8, 2024 · 5 min
Continential Championships Re-cap
Join host Robert Forto as he re-caps the Contiential Championshps in Wisconsin on this joint podcast of Mushing and Team and Trail.
S1 · E11
Oct 26, 2024 · 5 min
Continental Championship Day 1 Recap
Join Robert Forto as he hosts a joint podcast with Mushing and Team and Trail to discuss the day's events at the Continental Championship in Minocqua, Wisconsin.

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