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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Join us on this episode of the 603podcast for an exclusive journey into the exhilarating world of mogul and freestyle skiing, featuring insights from the dynamic duo, Nick and Suzi Preston, who together founded the Freestyle America training program and coached at Waterville Valley for decades.

Leading up to the FIS World Cup at Waterville Valley, a premier event on the East Coast, this episode prepares listeners with an overview of the lead competitors to watch, like athletes Olivia Giaccio, Jaelin Kauf, and Tess Johnson. Listen as Dan Egan digs into the legacy of freestyle skiing at Waterville Valley and its profound impact on the sport's history. From pioneers to Olympic champions like Hannah Kearney, the episode shares stories of dedication, innovation, and inspiration. Explore the advancements in training techniques, including the revolutionary use of airbags, and celebrate New Hampshire's role in nurturing world-class athletes.

Waterville Valley Resort proudly welcomes the return of the Freestyle World Cup on January 24-25th, 2025! As the birthplace of freestyle skiing, Waterville Valley Resort will host the world’s most talented freestyle mogul skiers for a second time as they complete for gold. The 2025 World Cup will take place on Lower Bobby's Run, a beloved double-black diamond run spanning 246 meters long with a pitch of 28 degrees. This eastern-facing course is perfect for mogul-style events, especially considering the expansive viewing area towards the bottom of the run.

This prestigious event marks Waterville's second time hosting a Freestyle World Cup event, you won’t want to miss out on the competition of a lifetime!

Buy your tickets here

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Imagine suddenly losing your sight at the age of 22 and how you'd adapt to a world turned upside down. That's the incredible story of Randy Pierce, a blind mountaineer and marathon runner, who joins Dan Egan on the 603podcast to share his transformative journey from isolation to conquering mountains. With the loyal companionship of his guide dog, Quinn, Randy's experiences redefine what's possible, illustrating the trust and teamwork needed for such remarkable feats.

Throughout our conversation, Randy opens up about personal loss, the mental fortitude required to face life's curveballs, and the importance of community support. He reveals how his childhood love for adventure was reignited, leading to extraordinary achievements despite his blindness. We also explore the liberating experience of winter hiking in New Hampshire, the unique dynamics of working with a guide dog, and the parallels between his adventures and life's unexpected twists, such as his inclusion in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

The episode delves into how setting goals and embracing the journey—no matter how unplanned—can turn challenges into opportunities for growth. Randy's insights on bridging divides, building trust within communities, and the power of small acts of kindness underscore the significance of unity and support. As he plans for future marathons and expands his work with Future Insight, Randy encourages us all to focus forward, illustrating that even when life doesn't go as expected, each step can lead to unforeseen rewards and personal transformation.'

Check out Future In Sight, an organization that has provided essential services & support for more than 100 years to children, adults, & elderly living in New Hampshire who are blind and visually impaired.

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Neil Lavesque: New Hampshire Presidential Primary

Region: South Central / Merrimack region

Neil Lavesque is the Executive Director of the New Hampshire Institute of Politics

Neil Lavesque is a lifelong New Hampshire resident with a deep seated passion and career for its local politics. As the executive director of the New Hampshire Institute of Politics at Saint Anselm College, Lavesque’s work lies in political engagement and access. In this episode of the 603 podcast, Lavesque touts New Hampshire’s unique role in the primary presidential election and the state’s commitment to local political involvement.

“When you have ownership in any kind of process, whether it be your workplace or in your small town, you feel that you want to participate. And that's why people participate here.”

New Hampshire’s primary presidential election will always be the first held in the nation. This gives the small Granite State, which only has four electoral votes, a lot of power to sway the presidential election. In being first, New Hampshire can indicate a candidate's popularity and either be the success or demise of their campaign. Listen to Lavesque as he breaks down the special political atmosphere of New Hampshire calling it “the state’s sport”, and its historic importance in deciding the nation’s leaders.

Want to get more involved with New Hampshire politics?

• Learn more about current events, speaker series, polling and more at New Hampshire Institute of Politics
• Tune in to New Hampshire Live, a podcast series covering all things political in the Granite State hosted by the executive director Neil Lavesque and former WMUR anchor Josh McElveen.
• Register to Vote! Register to Vote | New Hampshire Secretary of State

Learn more about the history of New Hampshire’s Presidential Primary with the New Hampshire Historical Society as they celebrate 200 years in 2023 at nhhistory.org.

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On this episode of the 603podcast, Dan Egan interviews Lindsey LaPointe, a New Hampshire-based adventure writer, blogger, and outdoor enthusiast who has made it her mission to inspire others to explore the state's stunning natural beauty. Originally from the West Coast, Lindsey moved to New Hampshire in 2008, when she took a job with the Appalachian Mountain Club. What started as a temporary move turned into a lifelong passion for the Granite State’s wilderness.

Coming from California, LaPointe was used to fire roads and trails with switchbacks, but New Hampshire's rocky, steep paths provided a challenge that immediately hooked her. Since then, she has fallen in love with the state's rugged landscape, particularly the Bonds in the Pemigewasset Wilderness, which offer hikers vast, breathtaking views.

In 2012, Lindsey started her blog, Freelance Adventurer, as a way to document her hiking experiences and share trail tips with others. Over time, it evolved into a valuable resource for those seeking outdoor adventures, offering detailed advice on everything from moderate hikes to family-friendly trails. Her personal stories about hiking, combined with practical tips on gear, trail conditions, and safety, make her blog a go-to for hikers in New Hampshire.

Lindsey’s work isn’t limited to her blog. She also contributes regularly to Field & Stream and Seacoast Moms, where she shares gear reviews, trip reports, and advice on hiking with kids. Her passion for the outdoors has also led her to become an ambassador for New Hampshire hiking, offering honest, accessible advice for both novice and experienced hikers alike. Lindsey’s writing emphasizes safety, preparation, and the importance of carrying the right gear, particularly for families and those new to hiking in New Hampshire’s more challenging terrain.

Beyond writing, Lindsey actively engages her local community. She runs the Seacoast Hikes Instagram account, where she shares short hikes that are perfect for families, as well as offering a trail guide for the Seacoast region that comes with a fun incentive—complete all 10 hikes, and you’ll earn a patch and bumper sticker!

As a mother of two young children, Lindsey integrates her love for the outdoors into her family life, taking her kids on regular hikes and fostering a love for nature from a young age.

Listeners can follow Lindsey’s adventures and get inspired on her blog Freelance Adventurer.

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On this episode of the 603podcast, Dan Egan speaks with Director Meghan Doherty from the Museum of the White Mountains, where the Old Man of the Mountain’s legacy is preserved through exhibits and lectures exploring the Old Man’s geological and cultural significance. Meghan has been instrumental in preserving the legacy of the Old Man of the Mountain. Her passion for New Hampshire’s history and her dedication to education and community engagement have made the museum a central hub for those wishing to connect with the Granite State’s rich heritage.

Back in the mid-19th century, the journey to see the Old Man was a true adventure. Visitors would take the train to Plymouth, New Hampshire, and then continue by stagecoach through Woodstock and Lincoln, making the sight of the Old Man even more rewarding. As tourism in New Hampshire grew, so did the prominence of the Old Man. By the late 1800s, it became a fixture in promotional materials and a symbol of the state's identity long before it was officially adopted as the state emblem. The Old Man of the Mountain stood proudly in Franconia Notch and the natural rock formation was beloved by generations. Megan shares that:

“For over a century, the Old Man stood watch over Franconia Notch, a silent guardian carved by nature itself.”

In May 2003, New Hampshire experienced a profound loss when the Old Man collapsed. Despite efforts to preserve it, nature took its course. Yet, the spirit of the Old Man lives on, continuing to inspire and appear on driver's licenses, road signs, and in the hearts of Granite Staters.

“The story of the Old Man of the Mountain is a testament to New Hampshire's enduring spirit. Despite its physical absence, the Old Man remains a powerful symbol of the state's natural beauty and resilient character.”

Want to learn more about the history of the White Mountains? Visit the Museum of the White Mountains in Plymouth, NH or go online to https://www.plymouth.edu/mwm/

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