Join Dan Egan on the 603podcast as he interviews author and historian Kim Varney Chandler, who takes us through the history of New Hampshire's covered bridges, and her new book covering all the details of the state's beloved architecture.

Chandler reveals the practical reason these bridges were covered and explains why communities have invested so heavily in preserving these structures, with some restoration projects exceeding $1.6 million.

Did you know the state once had over 400 covered bridges, with 58 authentic structures remaining today? Perhaps most remarkable is that of the seven historic covered railroad bridges left worldwide, five stand in the Granite State. Learn how Clark's Trading Post acquired and meticulously reconstructed the world's only remaining active covered railroad bridge.

We explore the threats these bridges face, from arson (the leading cause of bridge loss) to oversized vehicles, and the recent legislation increasing fines from $62 to at least $1,000 for damaging the historic treasures. This episode also touches on the unexpected connections to American history, including Underground Railroad activity around the Durgan Bridge in Sandwich.

Whether you're a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates New Hampshire's unique landscape, Chandler's stories will forever change how you see these iconic structures. Discover why these bridges matter, who built them, and why communities fight so passionately to preserve them for future generations.

Find Kim's book and more about her speaking events and covered bridges in New Hampshire at https://coveredbridgesnh.com/

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Join Dan Egan on the 603podcast as he interviews Founder of SIX03 Endurance, Tom Hooper. Hooper takes us through the remarkable evolution of a New Hampshire statewide running group with hundreds of members, nine major events, and pub runs in cities throughout the Granite State.

"Nobody likes doing things alone," Hooper explains, revealing how the social connections formed through SIX03 extend far beyond the trail. These tight-knit "pods" of runners transform from workout partners into lifelong friends.

The episode dives deep into the psychological aspects of ultramarathon running, where Hooper shares insights from his experience in 100-mile races: "You go through every emotion, every feeling, everything," he says, describing the mental strategies needed to push through "when your sugar gets low and you go into some really dark spots." His approach to breaking down seemingly impossible distances—"10 miles 10 times, not a problem"—offers valuable perspective for anyone facing daunting challenges.

The technical, unforgiving terrain of New Hampshire's White Mountains creates a distinctive running culture that differs dramatically from the "dusty, buttery horse trails" out west. This challenging landscape has forged local athletes who compete at national and world championships, with Hooper himself working as staff for USA Track and Field at international competitions.

Whether you're an experienced ultrarunner or just "trail curious," this conversation illuminates how community transforms individual efforts into something more meaningful. SIX03 Endurance continues to evolve, with plans for live streaming events and the prestigious 2025 US National Championship coming to Mount Sunapee. Join us for an inspiring look at how shared challenges create unbreakable bonds on and off the trail.

Registration is open for all SIX03 trail races this season.

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Hannah Kearney's gold medal-winning run at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics wasn't just a display of athletic brilliance—it was the culmination of a journey marked by failure, resilience, and transformation. As the New Hampshire local tells host Dan Egan, her path to Olympic glory started in the most humble circumstances: skiing Jay Peak's challenging glades while living in a house with no electricity or running water.

The mogul skiing legend reveals how her early exposure to freestyle came through ballet skiing at the Dartmouth Skiway—a discipline requiring intricate pole flips and choreographed routines performed to music. Under the mentorship of Nick and Suszi Preston at Waterville Valley, Kearney developed not just as an athlete but as a person. "They were so much more than ski coaches," she reflects, describing how their belief in her potential and unwavering dedication created a family-like environment that nurtured champions.

Particularly fascinating is Kearney's candid discussion of her 2006 Olympic disappointment, where poor preparation and overwhelming pressure led to early elimination. This failure, combined with a subsequent injury, became the catalyst for her complete reinvention as an athlete—incorporating serious strength training, meticulous preparation, and a newfound gratitude for her sport. When she stood atop the course in Vancouver four years later amid wind and rain, these experiences gave her the edge needed to claim gold.

Today, Kearney continues contributing to the sport she loves as a development officer for the US Ski and Snowboard Foundation, NBC commentator, and strength coach. Her iconic pigtail braids—originally a practical solution for securing her helmet—have become a symbol emulated by young skiers worldwide. As she prepares for induction into the US Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame, Kearney's story reminds us that sometimes our greatest setbacks contain the seeds of our future success.

Listen to the full episode to hear more on Hannah Kearney.

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