Wards Way Podcast

AI, Autonomous Docking, and What's Next for Boating

Host Kristina Hebert sits down at the American Boating Congress with John Adey, President of ABYC; Mark Reedenauer, President and Executive Director of NMEA; Brian Kane, President and CEO of GOST; and Dave Marlow, Senior Director of Product Integrity at Brunswick Corporation to explore how marine policy is shaped and why voluntary industry standards often move faster than regulation while still protecting people and the environment. The conversation tackles vessel speed reduction and whale protection efforts through the WAVES task force, including how trusted data and marine electronics can help boaters make safer decisions without creating unintended consequences. Kristina also uncovers the collaborative standards work behind modern boating technology, along with key industry priorities such as navigation aids, water access, Coast Guard equivalency, and workforce development. The episode wraps with a look at the future of boating—from autonomous docking and connected helm experiences to AI, cybersecurity, and the trust challenges facing the next generation of marine innovation. Wards Marine Electric https://www.wardsmarine.com/ [https://www.wardsmarine.com/] Wards Way YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75 [https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75]

The Red Snapper Story Everyone's Talking About

A fishery can be fully rebuilt and still remain effectively closed when outdated data and regulatory delays limit public access. From the American Boating Congress in Washington, D.C., Host Kristina Hebert sits down with Jeff Angers of the Center for Sportfishing Policy to explore how recreational fishing policy is shaped and why access and opportunity are essential to healthy fisheries and coastal economies. They discuss the red snapper debate across the Southeast, examining how state-led management and improved data collection could create longer, more predictable fishing seasons for anglers and businesses alike. The conversation also tackles the North Atlantic right whale vessel speed rule, highlighting the balance between conservation, boating safety, and innovative industry-led solutions that protect marine life while preserving access to the water. Wards Marine Electric https://www.wardsmarine.com/ [https://www.wardsmarine.com/] Wards Way YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75 [https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75]

Why Boating Isn't Like Driving a Car

Host Kristina Hebert sits down with Kira Maixner of American Sailing, a U.S. Coast Guard-licensed Master Captain and sailing instructor, to explore the training, certifications, and real-world skills that help boaters build confidence on the water. They discuss the path from basic sailing education to coastal cruising and bareboat chartering, while highlighting why strong crew skills are valuable whether you're at the helm or not. The conversation also examines power boating safety, the importance of understanding navigation rules and situational awareness, and American Boating's efforts to expand boater education through a NASBLA-approved certification program. Along the way, Kira shares lessons from the COVID boating boom, stories where training made all the difference, and ideas for attracting the next generation of boaters while protecting access to our waterways. Wards Marine Electric https://www.wardsmarine.com/ [https://www.wardsmarine.com/] Wards Way YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75 [https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75]

More Than Media: Creating Connections Across Boating

Host Kristina Hebert welcomes David Carr of Firecrown Media’s Marine Division and Michelle Goldsmith of the Soundings Trade Only Group for a conversation about the evolving role of marine media in connecting the boating industry, influencing policy, and building community. They discuss how Firecrown serves diverse audiences across the marine ecosystem, the responsibility of industry media to deliver credible insights, and the trends shaping technology, mergers and acquisitions, and market demand. The conversation also explores the future of marine marketing, including the shift toward data-driven advertising, the enduring power of storytelling, and the importance of developing the next generation of marine journalists. Finally, they highlight industry initiatives such as Women in the Industry, the Global Women’s Walk, and the events that strengthen relationships and create meaningful impact throughout the boating community. Wards Marine Electric https://www.wardsmarine.com/ [https://www.wardsmarine.com/] Wards Way YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75 [https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75]

Who Decides What Makes a Boat Safe?

Host Kristina Hebert sits down at the American Boating Congress in Washington, D.C., with Shannon Aronson, John Adey, and Brian Goodwin of the American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) and Robert Newsome of the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) to explore how boating safety standards are developed, updated, and implemented across the industry. Kristina and her guests explain ABYC’s role as an ANSI-accredited nonprofit standards organization, the importance of its volunteer technical committees, and how NMMA leverages ABYC standards through manufacturer certification to advance safety without relying solely on federal regulation. The conversation also highlights workforce development and Marine Service Technician Week, emphasizing the critical role trained marine technicians play in keeping boats safe and reliable throughout their lifecycle. Looking ahead, Kristina examines emerging technologies such as e-foils, self-docking vessels, and advanced driver assistance systems while connecting these innovations to industry funding through the Sport Fish Restoration Trust Fund and opportunities to participate in standards development. Wards Marine Electric https://www.wardsmarine.com/ [https://www.wardsmarine.com/] Wards Way YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75 [https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75]