From the Great Central Fire

Sara Upson

Jeff chats with former Camp Ogichi camper and staff member Sarah Upson about life in Cincinnati, where she works as a clinical microbiologist, and her path from Colorado State to Ohio State after reconsidering vet school. Sarah reflects on her years at Ogichi (camper 2010–2016; staff 2017–2020), witnessing the camp’s growth from the old Rainy Lake Lodge buildings to newer facilities, and shares her favorite canoe trips including the Bloodvein, English River, and a Cochrane River trip. She recalls camp traditions, leadership lessons and stories from director Kathy Dix, and the LDAC program’s whitewater training. Sarah and Jeff also discuss the family Farm in Adams County, memorable family experiences, her late father’s spirit and resilience, and hopes to return north to see new camp additions. Music by Alice Peacock. Produced by Unbridled Media.

Trace Dunning

In this episode, Jeff interviews Trace Dunning, director of the Urban Wilderness program, director of Owakonze, and new assistant director for Camp Kooch-i-ching morning programs. Trace shares how he first came to camp from Cincinnati, his years as a camper and staff member, and how support for his brother helped his family continue attending. He explains the Urban Wilderness program’s origins in 2013, and its rapid growth. With chapters in Cincinnati and Minneapolis, the program now completes roughly 45 builds and expects to reach about 4,000 students. He also reflects on his Centennial Arctic trip and his recent wedding! Music by Alice Peacock. Produced by Unbridled Media. Presented by the Camping & Education Foundation.

Bill Johnson (BJ)

In this episode of From the Great Central Fire, Jeff visits Bill “BJ” Johnson at his home in Cincinnati to share stories from 77 years connected to camp. BJ recounts starting at Camp Fairwood in 1947, being recruited through the Wasaka Boys Club, becoming a counselor, and returning in 1964 to run Intermediate Camp for 20 years. He explains the origins and rules of the Intermediate “spot game” and gauntlet, memories of Cabin 14, and the use of food coloring in meals during trips. BJ details pioneering trips, including the Bloodvein route (1967–68), how “BJ’s Pothole” got its name through fishing, and evolving logistics on Lake Winnipeg. He also describes building the dining hall in six weeks under the direction of John Holden and reflects on why he still returns each summer. Music by Alice Peacock. Produced by Unbridled Media.

Rob & Mike Walsh

In this first "two-guest episode" of From the Great Central Fire, Jeff talks with longtime Camp Kooch campers and staff Mike and Robbie Walsh. The conversation covers how camp shaped their resilience and professional life, and they invite listeners to participate by sending voice memos or joining the podcast. They also have a lot of laughs with Coles. Music by Alice Peacock. Produced by Unbridled Media.

Meredith Freshley - New Co-Director of Ogichi Daa Kwe

In this episode, host Jeff and Hugh Haller introduce Meredith Freshley, the new director of Ogichi Daa Kwe. Meredith shares who recruited her to camp in 2006, how a first Turtle River trip sparked her passion for canoe camping, and what she’s done since—studying social work at UW–Madison, completing a NOLS Patagonia trip, working in wilderness therapy in Bend, Oregon, and earning a master’s and license in special education before moving to Duluth. She reflects on key mentors, her favorite trips, and the planning and impact of the first women’s Arctic trip in 2017, “6 North of 60.” Meredith also discusses her roles at camp, her standout rowing career, her perspective on lifelong community, and how becoming a mom shapes her approach to camp and families. Music by Alice Peacock. Produced by Unbridled Media.