The Ski Podcast
The Ski Podcast is an award-winning show covering all aspects of skiing and snowboarding, from resorts to racing. Host Iain Martin interviews guests from the world of snow sports and discusses wintery topics. The podcast has over 300 episodes and was voted 'Best Wintersports Podcast' in the 2021 Sports Podcast Awards. Iain is a freelance journalist and founder of Ski Flight Free, a campaign encouraging skiers to travel by train or car.
Episodes
321: Chamonix Stories #6 | Sam Haddad: “I looked down and there was just the abyss"
In the sixth of our ‘Chamonix Stories’, we find out what it’s like to fall into a crevasse on the Vallée Blanche (don’t worry, this story has a happy ending!)Host Iain Martin speaks with freelance journalist Sam Haddad, about her first descent of the famous off-piste route – the Vallée Blanche. SHOW NOTESListen to our special episode about Chamonix (0:30)Sam Haddad runs the Substack ‘Climate and
320: Méribel Elections, Les 2 Alpes summer skiing and the Travelski Night Train
We find out how a Brit got elected onto the Méribel town council, what summer skiing in Les 2 Alpes is like, and look at the Travelski night train to the Alps. We also have snow reports from Australia and New Zealand and the latest news. Host Iain Martin was joined in the studio by Alex Armand from Tip Top Ski Coaching and Richard Lett from Apres Ski Bands. SHOW NOTESRich spoke about apres-ski
319: Chamonix Stories #5 | Ronin Skis
In the fifth in our series of ‘Chamonix Stories’, we Jonno Jacobs, founder of Ronin Skis – ‘exceptional lightweight touring and freeride skis for those who chart their own path’.Ronin is a passion project for Jonno: every ski is handmade and custom built for its owner, with a lot of thought put into making the skis as sustainable as possible. SHOW NOTESUsing a fridge to make a pair of skis (3:00)
318: Chemmy Alcott on Lindsey Vonn & Dave Ryding, Pila in Italy & Oz/NZ Snow Reports
Today we go behind the scenes of the BBC’s Olympics coverage with Chemmy Alcott, hearing what it was like to be on location for Lindsey Vonn's awful accident, as well as Dave Ryding's final race, plus we find out about the ski resort of Pila in Italy. We also have the latest from the start of the season Down Under in Australia and New Zealand and updates from GB Snowsport’s new generation of alpi
Introducing: The Ski Podcast
Love snowsports? Then The Ski Podcast is just for you...In almost ten years and over 300 episodes, we have covered skiing on all seven continents, thanks to guests joining host, Iain Martin, to discuss everything from easily accessible family resorts to one-off bucket list treats.So, if you’d like to know more about world of snowsports, going behind the scenes with experts from across the world,
317: Chamonix Stories #4 | David Webster (aka 'ChamonixSkiBum')
In the third in our series of ‘Chamonix Stories’, we meet David Webster, better known on YouTube as “ChamonixSkiBum”. David has almost 10,000 subscribers and 1.7 million views on his channel, where he publishes snow reports, reports on his high mountain skiing and more Chamonix valley adventures.📸 @olajaniakSHOW NOTESFirst ski experiences (2:30)Skiing at Gloucester Dry Slope (3:00)Ski seasons in
316: Chamonix Stories #3 | Oak (“Tinder for the Mountains”)
In the third in our series of ‘Chamonix Stories’, we meet Emil Wittrup Præstbrogaard, founder of the Oak App. Oak was launched in 2024 to bring together the mountain community, including skiers, climbers, trail runners, mountaineers and more. SHOW NOTESWhat is Oak? (2:00) Like ‘Tinder for the Mountains’ (3:15) Emil’s background (4:00) Why Emil started the Oak app (7:00) Going live in December 202
315: Chamonix Stories #2 | Silent Sessions
In the second in our series of ‘Chamonix Stories’, we meet Katy McInnes from the ‘Silent Sessions’ project in Chamonix. ‘Silent Sessions’ is a unique experience that blends stunning natural locations in Chamonix with mindfulness and dancing.SHOW NOTESKaty is a ‘musician, dancer, restaurant owner and events planner turned yoga teacher’ (2:30)She previously ran restaurants in Chamonix (4:00)Mountai
314: Chamonix Stories #1 | Zag Skis
Episode 314 is the first in our series of Chamonix Stories, today featuring Zag Skis. Iain spoke with head of marketing Alan Lemasson and head of R&D Bastien Saillard from the Chamonix-based freeride ski brand at their Argentiere 'Zag Lab' - where they make and test prototypes. We discuss the origins of Zag, the process of creating and testing new lines, sustainability and plans for the futur
313: Chamonix Mont-Blanc | More Than a Ski Resort
Today we focus on one of the most famous resorts in the world – Chamonix Mont-Blanc. Host Iain Martin talks with Chamonix locals to get behind what makes this resort so special, from history to high mountain, glaciers to guides. Thanks to everyone who contributed to this episode, including Bernadette Tsuda, Brad Carlson, David Webster, Sam Haddad, Sasha Rayazantsev, Benoit Borrell, Sam Morton and
312: Rachael Oakes-Ash, Founder Snowsbest.com
Today’s special episode is an interview with Rachael Oakes-Ash – founder of the Southern Hemisphere’s leading snowsports website, Snowsbest.com. Rachael – aka Miss Snow It All – is also a best-selling author, publicist, documentary producer, social media guru and podcaster. In this interview, we speak about her experiences reporting from the Winter Olympics in Italy, raising $200,000 for Snow Aid
311: Heliskiing in Albania, Champoluc & Chamonix’s Closing Day
We find out what it’s like heliskiing in Albania, learn about the ski resort of Champoluc in Italy, and hear about the last ski day of the season in Chamonix.We also have snow reports from Cervinia in Italy and Les 2 Alpes and Tignes in France.Host Iain Martin was joined by freelance journalist Katie Bamber and Editor of Snow Magazine, Tris Kennedy. SHOW NOTESKatie previously shared her experienc
310: Risoul & Vars, X3 Triathlon in Courchevel & Ski Mindset Coaching
Today we find out about the ski resorts of Risoul and Vars in France, report from the Dynastar X3 Triathlon in Courchevel and look at how you can improve your ski mindset. Host Iain Martin was joined by ski mindset coach, Lou Pode, and COO of The Ski Club of Great Britain and organiser of the London Snow Show, James Gambrill. SHOW NOTESIain recently skied in Verbier (5:30)Alex Armand from Tip To
309: La Clusaz, Candide Thovex's Skis & Verbier’s Ski Patrol
We visit La Clusaz and find out about local freeride skier Candide Thovex’s new range of skis. We also go to Verbier to learn what it was like to become the first woman to work on their ski patrol.We have snow reports from Flaine in France, Via Lattea in Italy and St Anton in Austria, news on the class action lawsuit going on in the States and there’s a Team GB update as well. Host Iain Martin wa
308: Ski Mountaineering 101 in Chamonix, Sundance & the Best Refuges in the World
We go on a ski touring adventure in Chamonix, staying an unmanned refuge at 3000m, and also take a closer look at some of the most spectacular Alpine refuges in the world. Plus we find out about the ski resort synonymous with Robert Redford – Sundance in Utah.We also learn of a post-Olympic spike in visitors to the UK’s snow centres, plus we have snow reports from Madesimo, Gausta and Les 2 Alpes
307: Sainte-Foy, Dolomiti Ski Safari & Ski Touring in Carinthia
Today we cover three countries: in France, we find out about Sainte-Foy-Tarentaise; we hear about a ski safari across the Dolomites in Italy; and about a ‘ski touring for softies’ adventure in Austria.Iain was joined in the studio by Ireland’s leading ski specialist, Catherine Murphy and freelance journalist, Simon Miller. ---------Tirol in Austria sponsors The Ski Podcast, which means this winte
306: Kitzbühel, Cat Skiing in Georgia, Brides-Les-Bains & Chemmy Alcott’s Olympics
We find out about one of Austria’s most famous ski resorts, Kitzbühel, plus go cat skiing in Georgia and consider if Brides-Les-Bains is the way to ski in Les 3 Vallées without breaking the bank.We also have snow reports from Courchevel, Les 2 Alpes and the Via Lattea and an Olympic catch up with Chemmy Alcott.Iain was joined in the studio by Anna Nirkow from Kitzbühel Tourism and freelance journ
305: Winter Olympics Special #10 | Bronze for Zoe Atkin
In our 10th and final Winter Olympics Special, Emily and Iain celebrate a bronze medal for Zoe Atkin in the Ski Halfpipe, discuss a photo-finish in the Men’s Skier Cross and look at the potential legacy from the Games for British snowsports.We also pick our highlights from the Games, with contributions from Rachael Oakes-Ash, Betony Garner and Zak, Luca and Freddy Carrick Smith. SHOW NOTESZoe Atk
304: Winter Olympics Special #9 | Cross Country best for Team GB plus Halfpipe preview
Iain and Emily discuss the Women’s Ski Cross, Michaela Shiffrin’s dominating performance in the Slalom and a best ever Team GB performance in cross country, plus we look ahead to Zoe Atkin’s chances of a medal in the Ski Half Pipe and reflect just how tough Skimo looks!Iain Martin was joined by Olympian and former Team GB Skier X athlete Emily Sarsfield. SHOW NOTESEmily commentates for TNT Sport
303: Isola 2000 & Nice, Stöten in Sweden & ‘un/para/ld’
We find out about the ski resorts of Isola 2000 in France - combined with a city break in Nice - and Stöten in Sweden.We also learn about ‘un/para/ld’ - a new project to improve outdoor clothing for disabled people and we hear how the recent SIGB ski test went with our equipment expert, Al Morgan.Host Iain Martin was joined in the studio by Ben Nyberg, MD at Ski Scandinavia, and Alice Sainsbury,
302: Winter Olympics Special #8 | Kirsty Muir misses out, plus Chemmy Alcott on Shiffrin
In our latest Winter Olympics Special, we discuss Kirsty Muir just missing out on a medal in the Ski Big Air, plus Chemmy Alcott shares her predictions for the Women’s Slalom. We also find out what life is like in an Olympic Village, plus we look at the new sport of SkiMo.Host, Iain Martin, was joined by Olympian and former Team GB Skier X athlete Emily Sarsfield. SHOW NOTESKirsty Muir finished 4
301: Winter Olympics Special #7 | Gold for Team GB
In our latest Winter Olympics Special, we discuss the first ever gold medal for Team GB on snow, after the win in the Team Snowboard Cross, plus we review Dave ‘The Rocket’ Ryding’s final slalom race. Host Iain Martin was joined by Olympian and former Team GB Skier X athlete Emily Sarsfield. SHOW NOTESCharlotte Bankes and Huw Nightingale won Gold in the Team Snowboard Cross (2:00)Medals = Funding
300: Winter Olympics Special #6 | Dave Ryding’s swansong, plus Laurie Taylor interview
We preview Dave Ryding’s last Olympics in the Men’s Slalom, including an interview with Laurie Taylor, plus look ahead to the Mixed Snowboard Cross with Huw Nightingale and Charlotte Bankes.Host Iain Martin was joined by ex-Olympian and Team GB Skier X athlete Emily Sarsfield for our latest Winter Olympics Special Episode. SHOW NOTESWomen’s Snowboard Cross (2:45)The Mixed Snowboard Cross is on Su
299: Tim Wall, Pub Le Ski Lodge La Tania
Today’s episode is a special interview with Tim Wall, owner of Pub Le Ski Lodge in La Tania in France’s Les 3 Vallées ski area. During our conversation Tim shares his experience of running one the most famous bars in Les 3 Vallées for over 30 years. He reveals his favourite apres-ski bands; the annual opportunity to ‘Toss The Boss’; and some of the other businesses that he has run, including La T
298: Winter Olympics Special #5 | Mia Brookes goes for it & Snowboard Cross with Charlotte Bankes
We discuss Mia Brookes ballsy attempt at winning a medal in the Snowboard Big Air, whether Lindsey Vonn is in denial and look at Charlotte Bankes’ chances of winning a medal in the Snowboard Cross. Host Iain Martin was joined by ex-Olympian and Team GB Skier X athlete Emily Sarsfield for our latest Winter Olympics Special Episode. SHOW NOTESIain skied today in Isola 2000 (1:00)Mia Brookes finishe
297: Winter Olympics Special #4 | Downhill & Ski Slopestyle Review
Today Iain and Emily review Men & Women’s Downhill, plus Kirsty Muir’s 4th place in the Ski Slopestyle. We have contributions from Chemmy Alcott and Ed Leigh. SHOW NOTESLindsey Vonn broke her leg in the Women’s Downhill (1:00)Graham Bell’s predictions in Episode 293 were spot on (4:00)BBC’s Chemmy Alcott analyses the Men’s Downhill (4:40)Iain has been enjoying the split screen feature from Di
296: Winter Olympics Special #3 | Ed Leigh on Freestyle Tricks
BBC’s Ed Leigh explains the terms used to describe freestyle tricks, as well as how the judges come up with their scores, in the third of our Winter Olympics special episodes.With Kirsty Muir competing in the final of the Women’s Ski Slopestyle tomorrow (Mon 09 Feb) and Mia Brookes taking part in the Women’s Snowboard Big Air qualifying today (Sun 08 Feb) and, hopefully, the final tomorrow, there
295: Winter Olympics Special #2 | Eddie 'The Eagle' Edwards
Host Iain Martin is joined by Eddie ‘The Eagle’ Edwards – who at the 1988 Calgary Games became famous across the world for having the courage and determination to take on the challenge of Olympic ski jumping.His story was made into a movie in 2015, starring Hugh Jackman and Taron Edgerton. Eddie tells us about flying to movie premieres in private jets, how he’s disappointed that Team GB seem to d
294: Sauze d’Oulx & Via Lattea, Pra Loup and Aussie Olympic hopes
We find out about Sauze d’Oulx and the Via Lattea ski area in Italy, as well as the resort of Pra Loup in the southern French Alps.We also get excited about the Olympics, hearing Eddie ‘The Eagle’ Edwards’ thoughts on Lindsey Vonn – and go ‘Down Under’ to look at Australia chances of bringing home a record medal haul. Plus we have your feedback and our regular snow reports from around the mountai
293: Winter Olympics Special #1 | Graham Bell & Ed Leigh
In the first of our special Winter Olympics episodes covering Milan-Cortina 2026, we preview this weekend’s big events - the men and women’s downhill - and look ahead to the Women's Ski Slopestyle. Host Iain Martin was joined in the studio by special guest Emily Sarsfield and down the line by BBC commentator Graham Bell and Ski Sunday's Ed Leigh.SHOW NOTESEmily Sarsfield first appeared on the pod
292: La Tzoumaz, Jasna in Slovakia and Team GB Olympic predictions
Today we find out about La Tzoumaz in Switzerland and Jasna in Slovakia, plus we preview the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics including interviews with Vicky Gosling, CEO of GB Snowsports and Zak, Luca and Freddy Carrick Smith. We also have our regular snow reports and share our downloadable schedule for all the skiing and snowboarding events at Milan-Cortina.Iain was joined in the studio by Irish s
291: Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis, Peak Performance design & new lifts in Courchevel
In this episode, we learn more about the resorts of Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis in the Tirol region of Austria, how Swedish clothing brand, Peak Performance, design their garments and check in on the new Chenus lift in Courchevel. Host Iain Martin was joined by freelance journalist, Simon Miller and Ski Designer at Peak Performance, Marie Andersson ---------Tirol in Austria sponsors The Ski Podcast, which
272: Zillertal in Tirol, Deer Valley & Safe Skiing in Val d’Isere
We find all about the Zillertal region in the Austrian Tirol, as well as the new expansion in Deer Valley, Utah. We also hear how Val d’Isere are helping skiers to feel safer, and have snow reports from Japan, La Plagne and…Wales!Host Iain Martin was joined in the studio by Katie Seiringer, owner of Kate Seiringer International Language Service in Mayrhofen and Emily Summers from Deer Valley Ski
271: Kirsty Muir, Team GB Freestyle Skier
Today is a special interview with Kirsty Muir – the World Cup winning British slopestyle and Big Air freestyle skier.Host Iain Martin spoke with Kirsty about her comeback from ACL and shoulder surgery to her first World Cup win last winter. We also discuss her journey from a dry ski slope in Aberdeen to becoming Britain’s youngest competitor at the Beijing Winter Olympics in 2022 and look forward
270: St Anton & Lech and the rise of the ‘Slow Skiing’ movement
Today we find out more about the Arlberg ski area in Tirol, Austria – focussing on St Anton and Lech – plus we look at the rise of the ‘Slow Skiing’ movement. Austria for sponsoring The Ski Podcast and making this winter’s episodes possible. If this is your first time listening, you’ve already missed out on some great conversations about Tirol. Host Iain Martin was joined in the studio by Nicole
269: Christmas Snow Report Special (La Plagne, Morzine, Meribel, Dolomites, St Anton & more)
Today is a special episode covering the latest snow conditions in Austria, Italy, France, Switzerland and in Canada, plus we reveal the results and the lucky winner from our 2025 Listener Survey.---------Tirol in Austria sponsors The Ski Podcast, which means this winter we’re are finding out more about some of the great destinations in Tirol, and how you can connect with the Austrian way of life:
268: Kit DesLauriers, First person to Ski the ‘Seven Summits’
This is a special interview with Kit DesLauriers – the person to ski the Seven Summits – the highest mountains on each of the planet’s seven continents.I read Kit’s book ‘Higher Love’ in the summer of 2025 and was blown away by her bravery, courage, determination and, quite frankly, by her incredible organisation.During our conversation Kit covers her background in skiing as a former Freeride Worl
267: Livigno in Italy & the Best Gloves & Ski Socks for 2026
In this episode, we find out more about Livigno, the host resort for the freestyle events for the 2026 Winter Olympics, plus we make our recommendations for the best ski gloves and ski socks for this winter. We also have snow reports from across the Alps plus the early results from our 2025 Listener Survey.Iain was joined in the studio by Betony Garner and Al Morgan. --------- Tirol in Austria spo
266: Ski Juwel Alpbachtal Wildschönau & skiing in Gulmarg, India
Today we learn about the Ski Juwel region of the Austrian Tirol, plus we find out about skiing in Gulmarg in the Indian Himalayas.We also have snow reports from Verbier, Zermatt, Megeve and Ischgl, plus we reveal news of a new competition, exclusively for listeners to The Ski Podcast, in which you can win goodies worth over £400. Iain was joined by Joey Pearson from Alpback and Krishan Anand from
265: Carv ‘The Wearable Ski Coach’, Whistler-Blackcomb & the latest Snow Reports
Today we find out about Carv - ‘the wearable ski coach’ - and learn about one of the world’s great ski resorts: Whistler Blackcomb in Canada. We also have snow reports from Tignes, Val Thorens and Cervinia.Iain was joined in the studio by Alex Jackson from Carv and Lauren Everest from Tourism Whistler, and down the line by Floss Cockle, Alex Irwin and Alex Armand.Tirol in Austria sponsors The Ski
264: Tirol West plus the Best Ski Helmets & Goggles in 2026
Today we find out about the Tirol West region in Austria, plus we look at the best new ski helmets and goggles this winter.We also have an update from the Sheffield Ski Festival, news from Madonna di Campiglio and we hear about a best-ever British performance in the World Cup slalom in Levi. Host Iain Martin was joined by Simone Zangerl from Tirol West Tourism and ski equipment expert Al Morgan. -
263: Ischgl in Tirol, Austria & Protect Our Winters 'Clean Miles' campaign
Today we find out about Ischgl in Tirol, plus we learning about the new ‘Clean Miles’ campaign from Protect Our Winters.Host Iain Martin was joined by Cat Ainsworth, CEO at Protect Our Winters UK, and three-time Winter Olympian and Ischgl resident, Marco Ladner. ---------Tirol in Austria sponsors The Ski Podcast, which means this winter we’re are finding out more about some of the great destinatio
262: SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental in Tirol & Ski Touring in Iceland
Today we find out about SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental in Tirol, plus we look at a new women only ski touring to IcelandWe also have snow reports from the opening day of the season in Verbier and Sunshine Valley – the first ski resort to open in Canada.--------- Tirol in Austria sponsors The Ski Podcast, which means that this winter we’ll be able to find out more about some of the great destinati
261: James Cove, Founder of Planetski.eu
A special interview with ski journalist, James Cove, founder of planetski.eu. We discuss his background working for the BBC, first in local radio, then political news, before he helped to develop their first digital coverage. James has also worked at the Ski Club of Great Britain, is a qualified instructor and has skied in literally hundreds of resorts around the world.--------- Tirol in Austria s
260: London Snow Show Special ft Dave Ryding, Chemmy Alcott, Carv & more
Today is a Snow Show special, recorded live at the London Snow Show at Kensington Olympia. Interviews include the UK’s no.1 racer Dave Ryding, BBC Ski Sunday presenter Chemmy Alcott, GB Snowsport Head Coach, Pat Sharples. You’ll hear from the Carrick-Smith brothers, BBC commentator Tim Warwood, Snowcamp, Carv and plenty of other exhibitors from the show.---------Tirol in Austria sponsors The Ski P
259: St Johann in Tirol, Après Ski Fashion & Icebreaker City Skim
Today we find out about the ski resort of St Johann in Tirol, plus we celebrate all things après ski, with a look at the fashions and styles of après over the years, some of the best spots to visit and even how to make your own après cocktails. We also have updates from Freddy, Zac and Luca Carrick-Smith – the GB Snowsport skiers that we sponsor – a report from the Icebreaker City Skim and your fe
The Best Ski Boots of 2026: Piste | All Mountain | Freeride
We review the Best Ski Boots for the new 2026 winter season, covering the best piste, all mountain and freeride ski boots. Host Iain Martin was joined by The Ski Podcast’s equipment expert Al Morgan and Frazer Shand, Operations Manager at Profeet.This special episode has been made possible by the Profeet Ski Boot Lab, based in south-west London. Profeet offer expert ski boot fitting, custom insol
258: Reece Bell, Team GB Slalom Skier, plus 'Ski Lifts Without Cables'
Today we meet Reece Bell - one of the rising talents in British alpine ski racing - plus we find out about Armana, a new company that see a future where ski lifts are autonomous vehicles and have no cables. Host Iain Martin was joined in the studio by Reece Bell and Dennis Hettema, and down the line by Rachael Oakes-Ash in Australia and Guy Beatson in New Zealand.---------Tirol in Austria sponsors
The Best Skis of 2026: Piste | All Mountain | Freeride
We review the Best Skis for the new 2026 winter season, covering the best piste skis, best all mountain skis and freeride skis. Host Iain Martin was joined by The Ski Podcast’s equipment expert Al Morgan. Tirol in Austria sponsors The Ski Podcast, which means that this winter we'll be able to find out more about some of the great destinations in Tirol, and how you can connect with the wonderful ‘f
![[Mini Episode] ‘Repair Claire’ at Montane](https://audioboom.com/i/43070917/s=1400x1400/el=1/rt=fill.jpg)
[Mini Episode] ‘Repair Claire’ at Montane
Iain speaks with ‘Repair Claire’, who heads up the excellent repair service at outdoor brand Montane. This continues the discussion from Episode 255 about sustainability and the importance of extending the life of our outdoor kit.Rather like Arcteryx’s ‘Rebird’ project, featured in Episode 218, it’s important to highlight the great work on sustainability that brands like Montane are doing. In this
257: Innsbruck in Tirol, Northern Snow Show & the UK’s first employee-owned ski company
We find out all about Innsbruck in Austria, look at the Northern Snow Show and learn why ski company Peak Retreats is handing over ownership to its staff. Host Iain Martin was joined by journalist Catherine Murphy; MD of The Snow Centre, Ian Brown; founder of the UK tour operator Peak Retreats, Xavier Schouller; and the company’s new MD Alison Willis.Tirol in Austria sponsors The Ski Podcast, whi
256: Nova Scotia, Saint-Gervais, London Snow Show & Ski Touring in Tromsø
Today we find out what it’s like to ski - and surf - in Nova Scotia, Canada. We discuss the new Valléen lift in Saint-Gervais, learn about Tromsø in Norway and we have all the latest news about the London Snow Show.There’s also snow reports from Down Under, your feedback and we exciting news about a new sponsor.Host Iain Martin was joined by Betony Garner and James Gambrill, CEO at SCGB and organi
255: Walking to the Alps in Ski Boots, Montane’s Repair Claire & the Re-Action Collective
We find out what it’s like walking to the Alps in ski boots, plus we have a focus on sustainability, looking at how different ski businesses are working together; what the UTMB are doing to reduce their impact; plus we have an interview with ‘Repair Claire’ from Montane.Host Iain Martin was joined in the studio by Heather Davies from the Re-Action Collective and by Reuben Gray and Matt Brinkley fr
Flashback: Warren Smith, Celebrity Ski Instructor
In this ‘flashback’ episode, Iain speaks with ‘ski instructor to the stars’ Warren Smith, from the Warren Smith Ski Academy. We talk about how Warren got into skiing and his journey to Verbier via the Hemel Hempstead dry ski slope and Seefeld in Austria.There’s plenty about the early days of the UK freestyle scene, working with many of the youngsters who have now become Olympians, as well as the c
254: Les Arcs in summer, Tour de France, new lifts in La Plagne & the Flocon Vert
We look at Les Arcs in summer, find out about La Plagne’s new lifts and the ‘Flocon Vert’ – the sustainability award for ski resorts in France.There’s snow reports from Australia and New Zealand, as well as a special report on the new Soho Basin area in Cardrona from Ski Sunday’s Ed Leigh, plus we find out what it was like when the Tour de France came to the Alps. Host Iain Martin was joined by La
Flashback: Tony McWilliam, Founder of Faction Skis
In this special ‘Flashback’ episode, Iain speaks with Tony McWilliam - founder of one of the world's leading snowsports brands - Faction Skis. We find out what inspired Tony to start Faction, how he smuggled his first batch of 44 skis across the Swiss border to Verbier, meeting freeski legend Candide Thovex when he was just 16 years old and how he grew Faction to become one of the most famous ski
253: Fiona Easdale, Olympian & co-founder YSE Ski
In today’s episode Iain speaks with Fiona Easdale, managing director and co-founder of the Val d’Isere chalet specialist YSE Ski. She was racing downhill in the Winter Olympics at just 16 years old, then worked in sports management with World Cup winning footballers, before her return to the ski industry with Bladon Lines. There, she rose through the ranks to become managing director, before going
Flashback: How to become a Ski Patroller in France
In this special ‘Flashback’ episode, Iain speaks with Tom Greenall, one of the few British members of the ski patrol in France.Tom explains the long journey he had to go through to qualify as a ‘pisteur’ (ski patroller in France), starting off with racing against 11-year-olds (having had some training from Glenn Plake!) to learning how to ski with a blood wagon in his hands. Intersport Ski Hire Di
252: The Rise and Fall of Bladon Lines | ‘Parrots in the Snow’
In this special episode we look at the rise and fall of Bladon Lines – a British chalet company who in the mid-80s were the biggest ski company in the UK, but by the mid-90s had completely disappeared.It’s the story of two young men, who met at university and were sure that they could do ski holidays better. It’s about how their company rode the 80s boom and grew exponentially to become ‘the’ name
251: Ski Touring in Italy, Rob Katz’s ‘To Do’ list at Vail Resorts & Skiing the Mississippi
Today we discuss ‘Homeland’ – a ski touring only ‘resort’ in Italy, we ask what should be on Rob Katz’s ‘to do’ list as he takes up the reins again at Vail Resorts, plus we find out about skiing along the Mississippi.Host Iain Martin was joined in the studio by freelance journalist Sam Haddad and host of the Storm Skiing Podcast, Stuart Winchester, as well as down the line with snow reports by Rac
250: Is Ski Ballet back? Plus Perisher, Cardrona & Australia/NZ news
Today we focus on the new ski season in Australia and New Zealand, especially the new chairlift in Perisher and ski area extension in Cardrona. Plus could ski ballet be making a comeback? We find out about this iconic sport from the 80sHost Iain Martin was joined by the expert on skiing in Australia and New Zealand, founder of the Snowsbest website, Rachael Oakes-Ash, and the founder of MGG clothi
249: Snow Camp, Skimigos, Muslim Ski Club | Improving diversity in snowsports
This week we look at how to inprove diversity within the ski industry and ways that under-representation is being addressed.Iain was joined by Amirra Blackwood and Dan Keeley from Snow Camp, Zahia Shaw from Skimigos and Burhan Ali from the Muslim Ski Club.SHOW NOTESDan was last on the show in Episode 98 (1:20) Find out about Dan’s epic run to Rome (2:20) Amirra and Dan were at the AJ Bell Three Va
248: Sheffield Ski Village, Women’s World Snowsports Summit & ‘Way2Snow’ for new skiers
Today we look at a new project to help first-time skiers, find out about the Women’s World Snowsports Summit and learn about plans to reopen of the UK’s most iconic dry ski slopes, Sheffield Ski Village.Host Iain Martin was joined live by guests Kimberley Kay and James Gambrill and down the line by Tim Justice, Alex Armand and Luca, Zak and Freddy Carrick-Smith.SHOW NOTES Kim was last on the podca
247: ‘Ski Gear Q&A’ inc how to carry skis, how to do up boots & how to store kit over the summer
This episode is an equipment special, tackling essential questions about kit such as the best way to carry skis, the ‘right’ way to do up your ski boots and how to store your gear through the summer? We also look at the effect of tariffs on the US retail market and discuss the latest developments in BOA ski boot technology. Host Iain Martin was joined by our equipment expert, Al Morgan.Watch this
246: Ski Jobs Special 2025: How & when to apply, and how to become a Ski Instructor
We look at how to make your dreams come true and find a ski job, including what jobs are available, what skills you need, when to apply and how the market has changed in the last few years. We also consider the ski instructor qualifications available and where they entitle you to work, and we also find out more about the possible new ‘Youth Mobility Scheme’. Host Iain Martin was joined by Jenny Gr
245: ‘The Brits’ in Mayrhofen, Passo Tonale and Jibworx
We find out about this year’s ‘Brits’ – the GB freestyle champs in Mayrhofen, get to know Jibworx and their new community for girls in snowsport, and learn about the Italian ski resort of Passo Tonale. We also have our regular snow reports, we announce the winner of our Vallon sunnies competition and Iain reveals a new UK snow challenge for May.Host Iain Martin was joined by Amelie Cockburn from J
244: Team GB Focus with Zoe Atkin (Halfpipe), Iain Innes (Skimo) & Molly Butler (Slalom)
In this episode we speak with two British athletes having a breakthrough season in their different disciplines, plus we celebrate a new British world champion.As well as that we also have our regular snow reports, an update from European Gay Ski Week, competition news and your feedback.Host Iain Martin was joined in the studio by Team GB slalom ski racer Molly Butler and Skimo athlete Iain Innes a
243: ‘Going East’: Slovakia, Bulgaria, Romania & Turkey by train
Today we find out about ‘Going East’ – a new ski film from Arc'teryx – which sees a team of four skiers make their way to ski in Italy, Austria, then Slovakia, Bulgaria, Romania and Turkey – all by public transport with not a single flight! In total they took 35 trains, 24 buses, 7 metro, 2 trams and spend over 140 hours travelling. They had to deal with language differences, connections and passp
242: Selva Val Gardena, Saint Gervais & the World’s Steepest Cable Car
We find out more about Selva Val Gardena in the Italian Dolomites, Saint Gervais in the Haute Savoie region of France and the world’s steepest cable car in Murren, Switzerland. Host Iain Martin was joined by freelance journalist Katja Gaskell and Alan Ramsey, sales manager for Schilthorn Cableway - the Murren lift company.Intersport Ski Hire Discount CodeDon’t forget that if you want to help The S
241: Elise Wortley, Celebrating Women Mountaineers
Iain is joined by adventurer Elise Wortley. In the last 7 years, Elise has taken on some hugely challenging projects to highlight some of the original – and largely forgotten - female mountaineers and explorers. What makes her ‘Woman With Altitude’ project unique is that she has climbed and trekked in places such as the Himalayas, the Alps and the Cairngorms using the same equipment and clothing t
240: Montagne Verte, Patagonia’s ‘Announcement’ & the Mer de Glace in Chamonix
Today is a sustainability special, looking at train travel to Morzine, the impact of global warming on the Mer de Glace in Chamonix, plus we take a closer look at Patagonia’s decision to become a company for ‘purpose, not profit’. We also have our regular snow reports, the latest news from GB Snowsports and your feedback.Iain Martin was joined Sara Burton from Montagne Verte in Morzine and Matt B
239: Skiing on Mt Etna, Catalonia & Borovets in Bulgaria
We discuss ski touring on Mt Etna in Sicily, the mountains of Catalonia and Borovets in Bulgaria. Host Iain Martin was joined by guests Becs Miles and Mike Richards.Intersport Ski Hire Discount CodeDon’t forget that if you want to help The Ski Podcast and save yourself some money this winter all you need to do is to use the code ‘SKIPODCAST’ when you book your ski hire at intersportrent.com or sim
238: Zoe Atkin, Team GB Freestyle Skier
Team GB freestyle skier Zoe Atkin has won multiple medals at the X-Games, World Cup and World Championships and is a hot prospect for a podium at next year's Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics.This season the 21-year-old has three World Cup podiums in five competitions, including a win and two second place finishes in her last three events. She will next be in action at next month’s Freestyle World Cha
237: 3 Zinnen, European Sleeper, Serre Chevalier by train & Ski Valentines
We find out about 3 Zinnen in the Italian Dolomites, plus we have a train travel focus: looking at the European Sleeper to Italy and trains to Serre Chevalier.We also have our regular snow reports, gold medal news for Team GB and your ski Valentines stories, plus the chance to win some super-cool Vallon goggles.Host Iain Martin was joined by Babsi Lapwood from the Mountain Trade Network and Dom Wi
236: Ed Leigh on Ski Sunday, Mia Brookes & the Natural Selection Tour
This special episode of The Ski Podcast is an exclusive interview with BBC presenter Ed Leigh. Ed tells us how the ‘Ski Sunday’ season has gone so far, including why his co-presenter, Chemmy Alcott, was a natural when it came to snowboarding. We cover his journey from Turin 2006 to Paris 2024, where he commentated on the BMX and skateboarding, before discussing the ridiculous talent of Mia Brookes
235: Big Sky, Montana & advice on US Multipasses (inc Epic, Ikon, Indy & Mountain Collective)
We find out about Big Sky Resort in Montana and look into the multipass options in the States, including the Epic, Ikon, Indy and Mountain Collective passes.We also have our regular snow reports, your feedback, Team GB news and equipment expert Al Morgan reports from the SIGB Ski Test in La Clusaz. Host Iain Martin was joined by Nancy Shiel, Head of Ski Patrol at Big Sky Resort in Montana, and Stu
234: Courmayeur, Ruanua Skiwear, Whitestorm Rental & Dave Ryding interview
We finding out about driving to the Alps in an electric vehicle, discuss Courmayeur in Italy, plus we have an entrepreneur focus talking to the founders of two snowsports companies.We also have our regular snow reports, your feedback, news on more World Cup wins for Team GB plus an update from Dave Ryding ahead of the World Champs in Saalbach.Iain was joined by Erin Flynn, founder of the clothing
233: Mark Smith, 'The Man in Seat 61', on train travel to the Alps
Today is a special interview with Mark Smith – the train travel expert also known as ‘The Man in Seat 61’. We discuss his background; how he came to set up his website seat61.com; his views on the best routes to the Alps by train; the trend towards night trains; plus whether there will ever be competition for Eurostar on the cross-channel line. Intersport Ski Hire Discount CodeIf you’re heading to
232: Montenegro, Tignes & European Gay Ski Week
We find out about skiing in Montenegro and Tignes, what it’s like at European Gay Ski Week and we look at the new Jandri 3S lift in Les 2 Alpes.We also have our regular snow reports, your feedback and news on World Cup wins for Team GB.Host Iain Martin is joined by freelance journalist Mary Novakovich, Matt Ware from European Gay Ski Week and regular guest, Catherine Murphy. Intersport Ski Hire Di
The Best Ski Touring Equipment for 2025 (including skis, boots & bindings)
We focus on ski touring in this equipment special. Iain and Al look at the best skis and ski boots for people wanting an ‘all-rounder’ set up or a dedicated lightweight touring set up, as well as discussing layers and the different bindings available. This Special Episode of The Ski Podcast has been made possible by Ellis Brigham. They are the winter sports specialists, with 16 shops around the U
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